recompense - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
recompense Word Meanings
- to give something in return for a service or benefit
- a payment or reward given for a loss or effort
- to compensate someone for loss or injury
recompense Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
recompense Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌrɛkəmˈpɛns/
US
/ˌrɛkəmˈpɛns/
recompense Word Etymology
Recompense is derived from 're-' (back) + 'compensare' (to weigh together). It originated from Latin to Old French, then to English. Picture a balance scale returning something back to balance, as in bringing peace after a conflict by compensating for a wrong.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Recompense is a formal word meaning to pay someone back for a service, injury, or loss, or to provide redress after a wrong. In everyday English you might say 'to recompense someone for their trouble,' but more common terms are 'compensate' and 'reimburse.' The noun sense refers to a payment or reward given to make up for effort or harm: 'a recompense for the damage' or 'a suitable recompense for his help.' In legal or historical writing, recompense can carry a weightier sense of restitution, implying a full restoration of balance or a settlement reached after dispute.
Usage Reminders
- Use formal tone; remember there are noun and verb forms
- Prefer compensate or reimburse in everyday speech
- Use with 'for' or 'to' when specifying what is being recompensed
- Avoid using it to mean simple gifts or praise
- In legal/historical writing, it signals a quest for restitution or balance
Common Misconceptions
- It is always exactly the same as 'reward' in every context
- It only refers to money
- It is common in everyday speech
- It cannot be used as a verb
- It never implies legal or moral redress
Thinking Differences
In English, recompense is formal and a bit old-fashioned; learners often mix it with compensation for damages or with a simple reward. Focus on context: legal/history uses it for restitution; everyday speech uses more common terms like compensate.
Learning Tips
- Know both noun and verb forms: a recompense / to recompense someone
- Compare with compensate, reimburse, and reward to pick the best fit
- Use 'recompense for' to specify what is being compensated
- Reserve for formal, legal, or historical writing
- Watch collocations: 'recompense for damages' vs 'recompense for his trouble'
- Practice distinguishing moral redress vs monetary payment
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'recompense'?
A.Uncover
B.Compensate
C.Disappear
D.Build
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'recompense' used correctly?
A.He left without recompense.
B.Let's recompense the puzzle.
C.The recompense of the book is fascinating.
D.She never received any recompense for her hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Select the synonym of 'recompense':
A.Penalty
B.Loss
C.Reward
D.Punishment
Step 4: Opposite Words
Select the opposite of 'recompense':
A.Repay
B.Return
C.Deprive
D.Compensate
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life scenario would 'recompense' be appropriate?
A.Conflict resolution where one party compensates the other for damages.
B.Cooking a meal for friends.
C.Going for a hike in the mountains.
D.Reading a book at home.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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