a reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response or answer to a question, request, or message. Example: "I appreciate your promptness in sending a reply to my email."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He grunted a reply.

The New Yorker

It got a reply.

The New York Times

He didn't expect a reply.

The New Yorker

That, too, is a reply".

The New York Times

I typed a reply.

The Guardian

A reply in moist purple.

The New Yorker

Deans never received a reply.

The New Yorker

No one offered a reply.

The New York Times - Sports

He still awaits a reply.

The New York Times

A reply came within hours.

The New York Times - Sports

We're awaiting a reply".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "an answer" or "a response" to avoid repetition.

Common error

Avoid using "reply" as a verb without conjugating it correctly. Instead of saying "He no reply", say "He did not reply" or "He gave no reply".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reply" functions primarily as a noun, denoting a response or answer to a question, message, or communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show its use in various contexts, from formal correspondence to casual conversation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reply" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote a response or answer. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase appears across diverse contexts, predominantly in news and academic writing. Its register is generally neutral, and its communicative purpose is to acknowledge and inform. While synonyms like "an answer" or "a response" can be used, "a reply" maintains a specific connotation of responding directly to a query or message. Remember to conjugate the verb 'reply' correctly when using it in active voice. With its high frequency and broad applicability, mastering the use of "a reply" will significantly enhance one's writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an answer

Replaces "reply" with a more general term for a response.

a response

Similar to "an answer", but can also refer to a non-verbal reaction.

an acknowledgement

Indicates recognition or receipt of something, sometimes implying a response.

a rejoinder

A formal or quick reply, often in an argument or debate.

a reaction

A broad term that encompasses any kind of response, verbal or otherwise.

a note in response

Specifies a written form of reply, emphasizing the medium.

a retort

A sharp or witty reply.

a feedback

Information about reactions to a product, a person's performance of a task, etc. which is used as a basis for improvement.

a verbal answer

Emphasizes that the reply is spoken, not written.

a comeback

A reply intended to defend oneself or criticize an opponent.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a reply"?

You can use alternatives like "an answer", "a response", or "an acknowledgement" depending on the context.

How to use "a reply" in a sentence?

"A reply" functions as a noun. For example, "I sent him a letter, but I never got "a reply"". Or, "Her silence was "a reply" in itself".

Is it better to say "a response" or "a reply"?

Both "a response" and "a reply" are acceptable. "A reply" typically refers to a direct answer to a question or message, while "a response" can be a more general reaction or answer.

What's the difference between "a reply" and "a retort"?

"A reply" is a general term for an answer or response. "A retort" is a sharp, often witty, reply, usually made in response to a criticism or accusation.