Meaning and Usage
"报复" (bào fù) means to retaliate or make reprisals, often in response to a perceived wrong or harm. It carries a strong connotation of revenge and is typically used in contexts involving conflict or personal grievances.
Common Contexts
This word is frequently used in discussions about interpersonal disputes, social conflicts, or even political/military retaliation. It often implies a deliberate action to 'get back' at someone.
Collocations and Patterns
- 报复行为 (bàofù xíngwéi): acts of retaliation
- 选择报复 (xuǎnzé bàofù): choose to retaliate
- 报复心理 (bàofù xīnlǐ): mentality of revenge
Usage Notes
When using "报复," speakers often imply a negative cycle of retaliation that can escalate conflicts. It is common to contrast "报复" with forgiveness (原谅). The term is more formal and serious than casual words for 'getting back at someone.' Avoid using it lightly in everyday small disputes to prevent sounding overly harsh or dramatic.