Counterinsult

/ˌkaʊntərɪnˈsʌlt/ noun

Definition

An insulting remark or action given in response to another insult; a retaliatory or opposing insult.

Etymology

From counter- (opposite/response) + insult (from Latin 'insultare,' meaning to jump on or attack). A social and linguistic term for responsive rudeness.

Kelly Says

Trading counterinsults might feel satisfying in the moment, but studies show that responding with kindness instead actually defuses conflict better and makes you look smarter!

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