WordGarden.ioreply
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪplˈaɪ/
US
- /riˈplaɪ/
Meanings
Noun
an answer or message sent back in response to someone
Verb
to answer by speaking, writing, or messaging back
Beyond the definition
A reply is what you give back after someone says or writes something to you. It might be a quick "yes" to a question, a thoughtful email answering a request, or a few words in response to an accusation or apology. Think of it as sending something back after receiving a message. The context matters: a formal reply is often written, while an informal one can be spoken. In some cases, a look, a nod, or even silence can also serve as a reply.
To reply means to respond to something said, written, or done. It's the act of answering a question, responding to a request, or reacting to a statement. For example: "She replied to his email within minutes," or "He didn't reply to her apology."
The word "reply" implies a direct response to something specific. It isn't just speaking; it's speaking in answer. You might reply with words, but you can also reply with actions—like replying to kindness with gratitude.
"Reply" has roots in the Old French word replier, meaning "to fold back," suggesting a response sent back to its source. This sense of "sending back" is still present today. Think about hitting "reply" on an email—you are sending your message back to the original sender.
The context of usage can vary greatly. A legal reply might be a formal written defense, while a casual reply could be a simple nod or a quick "okay." You can even reply with silence; sometimes, not responding is a powerful response in itself.
So, whether it's a carefully crafted letter, a swift text message, or a subtle gesture, to reply is to acknowledge and respond to something that has come your way.
Examples
- 1
Digital messages
I sent Maya a message, but she didn't reply.
- 2
Email
He replied to my email within ten minutes.
- 3
Direct speech
"I'm not sure," she replied.
- 4
Reported speech
The teacher replied that the test would be next week.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Invitation deadline
Please reply by Friday if you want to join us.
- 6
Quick response
Thanks for your quick reply.
- 7
Housing issue
We never got a reply from the landlord.
- 8
Formal answer
In reply to your question, yes, breakfast is included.
- Usagein reply to
as an answer to; common in formal English
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- replynounverb
Forms
- repliedpast tenseverbnoun
- repliespluralnounverb
- replying-ing formverbnoun