Tit For Tat Meaning & Sentence Examples

Tit For Tat Definition, Sentence Examples

TIT FOR TAT MEANING – Find out what tit for tat really means. Example sentences of this idiomatic expression can also be found here.

In the middle of the 16th century, the expression “tit for tat”—which means to respond in kind, particularly with an equal degree of retaliation—came into use. It originates from the childhood game of trading light blows, in which a “tit” stood for a light tap and a “tat” for the reciprocating strike. Consequently, “tit for tat” meant reciprocal transaction.

The expression still implies reciprocity and equivalent, but through time, it has become associated with retaliatory behavior during a dispute and has a more derogatory connotation. Nowadays, it frequently denotes unhealthy retaliatory cycles as opposed to straightforward reciprocal treatment. The phrase’s meaning has changed over time, reflecting how language has changed throughout history.

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Tit For Tat Meaning:

  • used to indicate when you punish someone after being wronged by them.
  • Respond in a fair manner.
  • respond in kind with an analogy.
  • exchanges should be like for like.
  • offer as good as one receives.
  • kind-match the action.
  • provide an equal response in return.
  • Give a corresponding response measure to the question.
  • Give the equivalent in return.

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Tit-for-Tat-Idiom
Photo Source: Grammarist

Here are examples of sentences that use tit for tat:

  1. Oliver responded with a tit for tat retaliation that further fueled the issue.
  2. Senators need to avoid the negative tit for tat of partisan politics and find standard solutions for the good of the nation.
  3. Kim and Bela had engaged in a tit for tat exchange of petty insults all night.

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