restorative
ri-STOR-uh-tiv
/rɪˈstɔːrətɪv/
Having the ability to return something to a former good condition or to repair a relationship.
In a legal context, it specifically refers to justice that focuses on the rehabilitation of offenders through reconciliation with victims and the community.
The story behind the word. Coming from the Latin 'restaurare', the word originally referred to rebuilding structures. By the 17th century, it moved into the realm of health and eventually into social systems, describing anything that brings back strength or wholeness.
Word relationships
- rehabilitative: Rehabilitative focuses more on the internal change of the offender, while restorative focuses on the relationship between victim and offender.
- reparative: Reparative is more focused on the act of making amends or paying for damage.
- punitive: Punitive justice focuses on punishment and retribution rather than healing.
Commonly confused with
- retributive: Retributive justice is about 'an eye for an eye,' whereas restorative justice is about healing the harm.
Word family
- restore (verb): To bring back to a former state.
- restoration (noun): The act of returning something to its original condition.
Collocations
- restorative justice
- restorative powers
- restorative effect
Example sentences
- "The school implemented a restorative justice program to handle bullying, focusing on dialogue rather than suspension." Legal theory
- "After a week of intense labor, he found the quiet of the mountains to be deeply restorative." Health and Wellness
Memory hook
Think of a 'Store' that is 'Re-opened'—it's being brought back to its former working state. Restore the peace.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to simple physical repairs of objects; 'restoration' or 'renovated' is usually better for buildings.
Fun facts
- The word 'restaurant' actually comes from the same root; the first restaurants in France served 'restorative' broths to heal the weary.
Related words
Explore more words
regenerative, restore, therapeutic, invigorate, restoration, rejuvenate
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