Retorsion meaning

Retorsion is a response to another country's actions that mirrors their behavior, often reciprocal in nature.


Retorsion definitions

Word backwards noisroter
Part of speech The word "retorsion" is a noun.
Syllabic division re-tor-sion
Plural The plural of the word retorsion is retorsions.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) e,o,i
Consonants (4) r,t,s,n

Understanding Retorsion

Retorsion is a term commonly used in international law and political contexts to refer to a response or action taken by a state in reaction to another state's violation of its own rights. It is a form of countermeasure that is more severe than mere reprisals but falls short of an act of war.

Legal Definition

In legal terms, retorsion is considered a lawful response to address an opponent's wrongful act. It involves taking actions that may not be illegal themselves but are designed to exert pressure or seek concessions from the offending party.

Examples of Retorsion

An example of retorsion could be imposing trade restrictions, visa limitations, or economic sanctions against a country that has violated international agreements. These actions are meant to signal disapproval of the offending state's behavior and compel them to rectify their actions.

Key Differences

Retorsion differs from retaliation in that it is not necessarily motivated by a desire for revenge or punishment. Instead, it is a strategic response aimed at defending the rights and interests of the state that has been wronged.

While retorsion does not constitute an act of war, it can still have significant political and economic consequences. States must carefully consider the potential repercussions of their actions and weigh the benefits of pursuing retorsion against potential escalations in tensions.

In conclusion, retorsion is a legal and strategic tool used by states to respond to violations of their rights in a measured and calculated manner. By understanding the principles and implications of retorsion, governments can navigate complex international relations with greater clarity and effectiveness.


Retorsion Examples

  1. The country threatened retorsion if the trade talks did not go in their favor.
  2. The company resorted to retorsion after their competitors undercut their prices.
  3. The government decided on retorsion measures to respond to the other country's tariffs.
  4. The diplomatic dispute led to retorsion between the two neighboring nations.
  5. The international community condemned the use of retorsion as a means of resolving conflicts.
  6. The trade agreement included clauses on retorsion in case of violations by either party.
  7. The legal team advised their client on the potential retorsion strategies they could employ.
  8. The threat of retorsion was enough to deter any hostile actions by the opposing faction.
  9. The negotiations reached a stalemate, leading both sides to consider retorsion as their next move.
  10. The media speculated on the possibility of retorsion following the political tensions between the two superpowers.


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  • Updated 24/04/2024 - 21:25:08