Retortion or Retorsion: Which Is Correct?

"Retortion" and "retorsion" are alternate spellings of the same word. The terms refer to the act of retorting, which means replying, returning, retaliating, or hurling back something. The words can also encompass turning, twisting, or bending back.

The spelling "retorsion" is more heavily associated with international law, although "retortion" is simply an alternate spelling. In a political context, "retorsion," means a diplomatic action that involves responding to another country's action in a way that mirrors or parallels the original action. It is a way to send a clear message of dissatisfaction or disagreement while avoiding an escalation of conflict. For example, Country A may impose a tariff on goods from Country B to which Country B would respond by also imposing a tariff on goods from Country A.

In non-legal context, "retortion" typically refers to a response or retaliation in a similar manner to an action or injury. It is used when a person responds to an accusation or criticism by making a counteraccusation or counterargument. For example, a researcher arguing with a second researcher may claim the second researcher is oversimplifying certain scientific concepts. The second researcher may respond with retortion, also claiming the first researcher is oversimplifying other particular scientific concepts.

"Retortion" and "retorsion" are not to be confused with "extortion," "distortion," or "contortion." Although all these words end in "-tortion," they each have distinct meanings.

Example sentences

Instead of addressing the allegations directly, the politician resorted to retortion by accusing his opponent of similar misconduct.
In response to the neighboring country's increased military presence along the border, the government engaged in retortion by deploying additional troops to its side.
During the debate, the candidate employed retortion by deflecting criticism with a counterargument against his accuser.
The trade dispute between the two nations led to a cycle of retortion, where each side imposed tariffs mirroring the other's actions.
The retortion strategy involved shifting the blame onto others rather than admitting any wrongdoing.
Diplomats from both countries engaged in a series of retortion measures, with each expelling an equal number of the other's diplomats.
The lawyer's retortion in court was to question the credibility of the witness rather than addressing the key issue at hand.
The journalist's article focused on retortion, highlighting the tendency of some individuals to respond to criticism with counteraccusations.
The board meeting turned into a series of retortions as each member deflected blame for the company's financial troubles.
Her habit of using retortion in arguments hindered productive discussions, as it derailed the conversation from its main point.

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