a reaction

USAGE SUMMARY

"a reaction" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a physical or psychological response to something. For example, "Her face showed a reaction of shock and surprise when she heard the news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I want a reaction".

The New York Times

They expect a reaction".

Independent

A reaction set in.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That evoked a reaction.

The Economist

He expected a reaction.

Independent

"It was just a reaction".

The New York Times - Sports

I waited for a reaction.

Independent

"Every action has a reaction".

The New York Times

"It's just a reaction play.

The New York Times - Sports

Lonni: I wanted a reaction.

The New York Times

Everything's a reaction in basketball.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a reaction" to describe a response to a specific stimulus or event. Be clear about what caused the reaction to provide context.

Common error

Avoid using "a reaction" when you mean "an action". "A reaction" is a response, while "an action" is an initiating event. For example, do not say, "His reaction was to start a new project" when you mean "His action was to start a new project".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reaction" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where it describes a response to a stimulus or event.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

16%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reaction" is a noun phrase that refers to a response to a stimulus or event. Ludwig AI analysis indicates it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in News & Media. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is crucial for describing how entities respond to various triggers. Related phrases include "a response", "a consequence", and "an outcome", providing alternative ways to express the result of an action. While generally versatile, it's important to distinguish it from "an action" to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a response

This alternative is a direct synonym, often used interchangeably with "a reaction".

a counter-reaction

This alternative indicates an opposing or retaliatory response.

an emotional response

This alternative specifies the emotional nature of the reaction.

a behavioral response

This alternative specifies the behavioral nature of the reaction.

an answer

This is a synonym, but it usually implies a direct reply to a question.

a physiological response

This is more specific, referring to the body's response.

a feedback

This alternative highlights the information returned about the result of a process or activity.

a consequence

This alternative emphasizes the result or effect of an action or situation.

a repercussion

This alternative implies a more significant and often negative consequence.

an aftereffect

This alternative emphasizes a consequence that follows an event or cause.

FAQs

How can I use "a reaction" in a sentence?

You can use "a reaction" to describe a response to an event or stimulus. For example, "The news caused a strong reaction from the public" or "His joke got /s/no+reaction."

What's the difference between "a reaction" and /s/a+response?

"A reaction" and /s/a+response are often used interchangeably, but "a reaction" might imply a more immediate or instinctive reply, while /s/a+response could be more considered.

When is it appropriate to use "a reaction" instead of /s/an+action?

Use "a reaction" when describing a response to something. /s/An+action refers to the cause of the reaction. For example, "His action caused a negative reaction".

What are some alternative phrases to "a reaction"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like /s/a+response, /s/a+consequence, or /s/an+outcome to replace "a reaction".