The word desquite refers to an act of retribution or vengeance, emphasizing the idea of compensating or responding in kind to a wrongdoing or harm received. It is frequently used in contexts related to personal disputes or conflicts, and it can also be found within legal discussions concerning punitive actions. The usage of "desquite" tends to be more common in written contexts, particularly in literature and formal writing, but it may also be used in spoken conversation, especially when discussing themes of justice or revenge.
Revenge is not the solution to family problems.
Siempre se quejaba de que su desquite era inevitable.
He always complained that his retribution was unavoidable.
En su mente, el desquite era la única manera de sanar.
While "desquite" itself is not commonly found in fixed idiomatic expressions, it does resonate with several related themes in Spanish. Here are a few expressions that emphasize similar notions:
He who plays with fire sometimes seeks his revenge.
El desquite es un plato que se sirve frío.
Revenge is a dish best served cold.
No hay nada como un buen desquite para sentirse mejor.
There’s nothing like a good payback to feel better.
La historia está llena de ejemplos de desquite histórico.
History is full of examples of historical retribution.
El desquite puede ser dulce, pero también destructivo.
The word "desquite" originates from the Spanish prefix "des-" which indicates negation or reversal, combined with "quitar," meaning to take away. This connotation of taking something back or reclaiming serves to highlight the act of retribution.