Eye for an eye Meaning in English
expression
ˈaɪ/ /ˈfɔɹ/, /fɝ/, /fɹɝ/ /ˈæn/, /ən/ /ˈaɪ
EYE for an EYE
ˈaɪ/ /fˈɔː/ /ˈɐn/ /ˈaɪ
EYE faw an EYE
Definition
A principle that says a person should receive the same punishment that they have caused to others, often used when talking about justice or revenge.
Usage & Nuances
Biblical in origin; mostly used when discussing strict justice or retaliation. Sometimes quoted to criticize harsh punishments. Not used in casual conversation about minor issues.
Spanish: ojo por ojoPortuguese (BR): olho por olhoPortuguese (PT): olho por olhoChinese (Simplified): 以牙还牙Chinese (Traditional): 以牙還牙Hindi: आंख के बदले आंखArabic: العين بالعينBengali: চোখের বদলে চোখRussian: око за окоJapanese: 目には目をVietnamese: mắt đền mắtKorean: 눈에는 눈Turkish: kısasa kısasUrdu: آنکھ کے بدلے آنکھIndonesian: mata ganti mata
Example Sentences
Some people believe in eye for an eye justice.
basic
The old law followed eye for an eye punishment.
basic
Eye for an eye is not always the best way to solve problems.
basic
He hurt you, but does eye for an eye really make things better?
natural
I don’t believe in eye for an eye; forgiveness is more powerful.
natural
She quoted 'eye for an eye' when talking about justice.
natural