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reply

/rɪˈplaɪ/
verb★Beginner— to answer or respond
general

to answer someone or something, especially in writing or speech

He replied to the question with a detailed explanation.

He answered the question thoroughly.

The company replied to customer complaints promptly.

The company responded to customer complaints quickly.

💡

Can be used in formal or informal contexts, often in written or spoken communication.

informal

to respond to a message, comment, or post on social media or online platforms

She replied to my tweet with a funny meme.

She responded to my tweet with a humorous image.

He replied to the post with a thoughtful comment.

He responded to the post with a well-considered remark.

💡

Common in digital communication, especially on social media.

Collocations

reply toto answer or respond to someone or somethingreply withto respond using a specific method or content

Synonyms

answerrespondretortacknowledge

Antonyms

ignoreoverlookneglect

Related Phrases

reply allphrase
to respond to an email or message by sending it to all recipients
reply chainphrase
a series of replies in a conversation or discussion

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal

Use 'reply' in formal contexts like emails or official communications. In casual conversations, 'respond' or 'answer' might be more natural.

⚡Gold Rule

Verb Usage

'Reply' is often followed by 'to' when referring to a specific question or message.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'replyen', from Old French 'replier', from Latin 'replicare' meaning 'to fold back' or 'to answer'.

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as a verb or noun. As a noun, it refers to an answer or response.

Word Breakdown

re-
back
prefix
+
-ply
to fold or bend
root
+
-y
suffix indicating action or state
suffix
English Dictionary

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