Recompense Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/rɪˈkɒmpɛns/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A recompense is an act of giving or returning something, especially money, as a reward or compensation for something done or suffered, often in exchange for a service, sacrifice, or hardship.

Examples

1. “She received a generous recompense for her years of dedicated service.”

2. “The company provided recompense to its employees who lost their homes during the disaster.”

Synonyms

1. Reward

2. Compensation

Antonyms

1. Penalty

2. Fine

Additional Information

Recompense can take many forms, including financial compensation, recognition, or special treatment. It can be used to motivate employees, reward customers, or express gratitude to individuals who have made significant contributions. The act of recompense can also be seen as a way to restore balance or fairness in a situation where someone has been unfairly affected.

The concept of recompense stretches back to ancient times, with various cultures practicing forms of recompense as a way of maintaining social order and promoting fairness. In modern times, recompense is used in a wide range of contexts, from business and politics to personal relationships and community development.

The amount and type of recompense given can vary greatly depending on the circumstances and the individuals involved. In some cases, recompense may be seen as a way to make up for past injustices or wrongs, while in others it may be used to incentivize specific behaviors or actions.

From a psychological perspective, recompense can have a profound impact on an individual’s sense of justice and fairness. When recompense is given, it can help to restore a sense of balance and calm, while a lack of recompense can lead to feelings of resentment and anger.

In business and economics, recompense is often used as a tool for motivation and as a way to attract and retain talent. Companies may offer recompense in the form of bonuses, stock options, or other benefits to their employees in order to incentivize them to work harder and perform better.

Recompense can also be seen as a way to build community and social connections. By recognizing and rewarding individuals for their contributions, we can foster a sense of shared purpose and collective responsibility.

Etymology

The word “Recompense” comes from the Old French word “recompenser,” which is derived from the Latin words “re” (meaning “again” or “anew”) and “compensare” (meaning “to weigh equally” or “to compensate”).

Historically, the concept of recompense has evolved over time, influenced by various cultural and social factors. In ancient Greece and Rome, recompense was often used as a way to punish wrongdoers and restore justice. In the Middle Ages, recompense was used as a way to recognize and reward loyalty and service.

Usage Notes

Recompense is often used in formal or professional contexts, such as business, politics, or law. However, it can also be used in more informal settings, such as personal relationships or community development.

When using the word “Recompense,” it’s essential to consider the context and the individuals involved. For example, in a business setting, recompense may be used to motivate employees, while in a personal relationship, it may be used to express gratitude or apology.

Cultural References

Recompense has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and music. For example, in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, recompense is given to the wrongly accused Tom Robinson.

In the movie “The Godfather,” recompense is used as a way to buy loyalty and silence in the organized crime world.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Recompense is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “fair recompense” or “just recompense.” These expressions convey the idea that recompense should be given in proportion to the benefit or harm received.

Other idiomatic expressions, such as “recompense oneself” or “self-recompense,” suggest that individuals can take matters into their own hands and give themselves recompense when necessary.

Related Words or Phrases

Recompense is closely related to other words and phrases, such as “reward,” “compensation,” “punishment,” and “retribution.” These words and phrases all convey the idea of giving or receiving something in exchange for a service, sacrifice, or hardship.

Collocations

Recompense is often collocated with words like “fair,” “just,” and “equitable,” which convey the idea of balance and fairness. Other common collocations include “monetary recompense” and “non-monetary recompense.”

Frequency of Use

Recompense is a relatively common word in modern language, with a frequency of use estimated at around 0.5% in written English and 1.5% in spoken English.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of the word “Recompense” include “Recompense,” “Recampase,” “Recompensee,” and “Recompensar.”