a cold reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a cold reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a response that is emotionally distant, unfriendly, or lacking warmth. Example: "After my heartfelt confession, I was met with a cold reply that left me feeling rejected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A witness, the son of one of the six clergymen, said the letter had received a cold reply saying nothing could be done.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"He's getting on with the job," came the unnecessarily cold reply.

Independent

For example, a three-part sales simulation first had me write a cold email, then reply to a customer inquiry, and lastly make a cold sales call (using my real cell phone) for a potential client.

TechCrunch

"She wasn't saved," one of the girls replied in a cold, superior voice.

The New Yorker

According to Mr. Bhuchung Sonam, the sister replied: "Mother had a cold and was hospitalized for a while after she came back.

The New York Times

"I think a cold statement on that point would be yes," Mr. Dingell replied.

The New York Times

She replies, "Och, he's home in bed with a cold".

The New Yorker

"It'll be a cold day in Gila Bend, Arizona, when I watch that movie," McCain replied.

Huffington Post

"Gotcha, loud and clear," Mr. Toomey replied, zipping up his black bomber jacket and heading into a cold wind.

The New York Times

Smiley became very nervous and replied "yes it is I must of dropped it I have a cold"...

The New Yorker

Any war can be a cold war when one country sends a lengthy, thoughtful doctrine & the other country replies "k".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cold reply" to effectively convey a sense of emotional distance or lack of warmth in a response. It's best used when you want to emphasize the negative impact of the reply on the recipient.

Common error

Avoid using "a cold reply" in situations requiring empathy or support. It can sound harsh or insensitive if not used appropriately. Consider the emotional context before choosing this phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cold reply" functions as a noun phrase, where 'cold' modifies 'reply'. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it describes the nature or quality of the response, indicating a lack of warmth or empathy.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

17%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

16%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a cold reply" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a response lacking warmth or empathy. Though Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's relatively rare in occurrence. Its primary function is to convey the emotional tone of a response, often emphasizing a negative or unwelcoming reaction. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts. When using "a cold reply", consider the emotional implications and strive for appropriateness to avoid unintended insensitivity. Alternatives like "an indifferent response" or "a detached answer" may offer subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

An indifferent response

Focuses on the lack of concern or interest in the reply.

A detached answer

Emphasizes the emotional distance and lack of personal involvement in the answer.

A frosty response

Highlights the unfriendly and unwelcoming nature of the reply.

A curt answer

Stresses the brief and abrupt nature of the reply, often implying rudeness.

An emotionless reaction

Focuses on the absence of any emotional expression in the response.

A lackluster response

Underlines the lack of enthusiasm or energy in the reply.

An unenthusiastic answer

Highlights the absence of excitement or eagerness in the response.

A dismissive reply

Emphasizes the rejection or disregard implied in the response.

A stony response

Implies a hard, unfeeling, and unresponsive reaction.

A frigid answer

Highlights the extremely unfriendly and unapproachable nature of the reply.

FAQs

How can I use "a cold reply" in a sentence?

You can use "a cold reply" to describe a response lacking warmth or empathy. For example: "She received "a cold reply" after expressing her concerns."

What's a similar phrase to "a cold reply"?

Alternatives include "an indifferent response", "a detached answer", or "a frosty response", each conveying a slightly different nuance of emotional distance.

Is "a cold reply" formal or informal?

"A cold reply" is generally neutral but leans towards formal when describing a lack of emotional warmth in professional or serious situations. However, it can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use "a cold reply"?

Avoid using "a cold reply" when seeking to express empathy or understanding. It can be perceived as insensitive or dismissive in situations requiring emotional support.