Returning fire refers to the act of responding to an attack or threatening situation with counterattacks. There are several synonyms that can be used to replace this phrase, such as retaliating, counterattacking, firing back, defending, and reciprocating. Retaliating is used when one feels the need to respond to an attack in a similar manner as the attacker. Counterattacking refers to responding to an attack with a planned offensive strategy. Firing back is a direct response to attacks in self-defense. Defending is used when the focus is on protecting oneself or others. Finally, reciprocating is used when both parties are responding in a similar manner.