Synonyms for

Payback

Verb / ˈpeɪˌbæk / Another word for payback — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Revenge or retribution for a wrongdoing or injury.

Synonyms & similar words

retribution vengeance revenge retaliation vengeance reprisal retribution recompense compensation reparations punishment redress satisfaction reciprocity avenging

Synonyms by register

Formal

recompense restitution remuneration reimbursement

Informal

getting even getting even with getting square getting even getting even with

Literary

requital retribution

Antonyms

forgiveness amnesty acquittal pardon mercy clemency

Common collocations

  • payback period
  • payback time
  • payback for
  • payback on
  • payback is a bitch
  • payback received
  • payback expected

Word family

noun payback
verb pay back

Usage note

While 'payback' can refer to repayment of a debt or investment, it often carries a connotation of revenge or retaliation, especially in informal contexts.

Example sentences

  1. He knew he had payback coming after he cheated on his girlfriend.
  2. She sought payback against the bully who had tormented her for years.
  3. The gang members were out for payback after their leader was killed.
  4. The hero of the story seeks payback against the villain who killed his family.
  5. I don't believe in payback. I prefer to forgive and move on.

Quotes

  • "Revenge is often like biting a dog because the dog bit you." - Austin O'Malley
  • "An eye for an eye will only make the world blind." - Mahatma Gandhi
  • "There is no revenge so complete as forgiveness." - Josh Billings

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