requite - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
requite Word Meanings
- to return or repay a favor or kindness
- to avenge or retaliate
- to reciprocate affection or feelings
requite Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
requite Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈkwaɪt/
US
/rɪˈkwaɪt/
requite Word Etymology
Root Decomposition: re- (again) + quite (to make equal). Historical Origin: Latin 'requirere' → Old French 'requiter' → English 'requite'. Memory Image: Imagine a person receiving a favor and then making it a point to return that kindness, symbolizing the balance of giving and receiving.
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
Requite is a formal verb meaning to return or repay a favor, to avenge, or to reciprocate affection. In modern English, it is most natural with acts of kindness or favors: you can say you will requite a kindness or repay a debt of gratitude. The sense of retaliation is older and rarer, typically encountered in literature or historical writing. Learners should note that it is not commonly used for everyday money matters, and it often sounds ceremonial. Common collocations include 'requite a kindness,' 'be requited with love,' and 'to be repaid with gratitude.'
Usage Reminders
- Use with a clear object: a kindness, a favor, or a debt of gratitude
- Avoid money-related mistranslations; it is not a simple ‘pay back’
- It sounds formal or literary; more common verbs are return or repay
- Note passive form: be requited with love or be requited for kindness
- Pair with reciprocal sense: you and the other person both benefit from the exchange
- Remember its nuance can include love as well as favors
Common Misconceptions
- Believing it means simply paying back money
- Assuming it always implies revenge
- Thinking it can replace repay or reciprocate in casual speech
- Using it without a clear object (favors/kindness)
- Assuming it is common in everyday conversation
Thinking Differences
In English, requite is relatively formal and literary; learners should notice its strong sense of reciprocity rather than simple repayment, and that it is uncommon in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Use with specific objects: a kindness, a favor, or a debt of gratitude.
- Do not use for everyday money transactions.
- Treat it as more formal or literary; in casual speech prefer 'return' or 'reciprocate'.
- Be mindful of passive form: be requited with love.
- Practice with both positive and negative contexts (be requited, or requite anger).
- Pair with verbs that emphasize reciprocity, not revenge.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'requite'?
A.To create something new
B.To give something back in return
C.To examine closely
D.To feel sadness
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'requite' correctly.
A.He decided to requite his lost treasure by burying it again.
B.They requite the building with beautiful decorations.
C.She hoped he would requite her love with his own feelings.
D.To requite an apology, one must often write a letter.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'requite'?
A.Ignore
B.Abandon
C.Compensate
D.Despise
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'requite'?
A.Neglect
B.Return
C.Reward
D.Honor
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where one might requite an act of kindness?
A.When someone helps you move, you might invite them to dinner.
B.A friend lends you money, and you buy them a gift in return.
C.You forgot to thank your teacher for their help.
D.It's polite to not respond when someone gives you a compliment.
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