respond in kind
Frequency: 6.570.4 per million words
to react to someone in the same way that they have treated you
Categories:
Examples (10)
- The terrorists declared all-out war on the government and the government responded in kind.
- If you treat people with respect, they will usually respond in kind.
- When he insulted her, she decided to respond in kind with an equally sharp remark.
- The company promised to address customer complaints, hoping they would respond in kind by continuing their patronage.
- Instead of retaliating, it's sometimes better not to respond in kind to aggression.
- She offered a helping hand, and he gratefully responded in kind when she later needed assistance.
- The audience cheered enthusiastically, and the band responded in kind with an encore.
- He was known for his sarcasm, and people often responded in kind, creating a witty but sometimes hostile atmosphere.
- The manager's harsh criticism made the employees want to respond in kind, but they held their tongues.
- If you show kindness, others are more likely to respond in kind.