What is the definition of 'retaliate'?

The definition of 'retaliate' refers to the act of seeking revenge or responding to a perceived wrong by inflicting harm or doing something negative in return. This concept is grounded in the idea that a person who feels they have been wronged may take action to address that wrong by enacting a form of punishment or reprisal against the offender.

In the context of the other choices, forgiving someone after harm is the opposite of retaliation, as it involves letting go of grievances rather than responding with negativity. Taking no action after being wronged also suggests a passive response, which does not align with the active nature of retaliation. Finally, apologizing for past wrongdoings indicates a willingness to take responsibility and mend relationships, rather than seeking revenge or retaliation. These distinctions clarify why the correct answer encompasses the proactive aspect of responding to harm with a counteraction, thus highlighting the nature of retaliation itself.