Difference Between Revenge & Avenge

Revenge vs Avenge

As two words in the English language that have similar meanings but are not synonymous, it is important to know the difference between revenge and avenge to use them accurately. Many people mistakenly use these words interchangeably. Though they have nearly the same meaning, the words revenge and avenge are different and are used in different contexts. This article will attempt to clarify any confusion, especially for those whose native language is not English.

What does Avenge mean?

Avenge is a verb. To avenge is to punish someone for their wrongdoing for the sake of justice. Alternatively, the Oxford English dictionary defines avenge as “inflict harm in return for (an injury or wrong done to oneself or another).” The verb avenge has its origins in Late Middle English. Avenger is a noun that is a derivative of the verb avenge.

What does Revenge mean?

While avenge is a verb, revenge can be both a verb and a noun. Revenge also has a similar meaning to avenge, but justice takes a backseat and the focus is to inflict harm on the other person by using violence. However, revenge can be an insult or a taunt in words and not necessarily physical in the true sense of the term. Moreover, revenge also has its origins in Late Middle English. There are even phrases that use the word revenge, such as “revenge is a dish best served (or eaten) cold,” a popular proverb meaning “vengeance is often more satisfying if it is not exacted immediately.”

Key Takeaways

• To avenge is to take revenge for the wrongdoing of someone else for the sake of getting justice on behalf of someone else, usually a loved one.
• While revenge is punishing the aggressor for causing harm to you, to avenge is to cause harm to someone who did wrong to someone dear to you.
• Avenge is a verb, while revenge can be both a verb and a noun.

When another person has harmed someone dear to you and you retaliate on their behalf, you are avenging the aggressor’s wrongdoing. Therefore, there is a difference between revenge and avenge. You take revenge to get even with someone who may have hurt you, but you vow to avenge for something done to someone you care about (that you perceive as wrong).