Avenge vs. revenge

What does avenge mean?

Avenge is a verb which means to inflict harm in return for a wrong done on behalf of oneself or another person. The noun form of avenge is vengeance.

For example:

·      She vowed to avenge the murders.

What does revenge mean?

Revenge can be a noun or a verb which means to inflict harm on someone in return for a wrong suffered at their hands. Revenge implies the action comes out of resentment or anger.

For example:

·      I will get my revenge.

What’s the difference between avenge and revenge?

Both avenge and revenge mean to inflict harm in return for a wrong done to someone, but revenge implies the action comes out of resentment or anger. Revenge is more often used as a noun.