a reply is awaited

USAGE SUMMARY

This is a correctly formed and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used when someone expects a response from someone or something, usually in the form of an answer, reply, or decision. For example: The headmaster has been asked to make a decision on the matter, and a reply is awaited.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A decision is awaited.

The Guardian

The BBC contacted Blackpool on Tuesday afternoon seeking a response from Oyston to Belokon's comments and is awaiting a reply.

BBC

The EHRC is understood to have written to the BNP outlining its concerns about the new constitution and is awaiting a reply.

The Guardian

THUMP reached out to the Delano hotel for additional comments following their statement for Page 6, and is awaiting a reply.

Vice

THUMP reached out to both Hard Day of the Dead and Escape: Psycho Circus for comment, and is awaiting a reply.

Vice

A fourth defendant, Kareem Ibrahim, is awaiting trial.

The New York Times

Still a noticeable number of nodes is awaiting CTS response.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

The museum is awaiting a response.

The New York Times

Lord Owen is awaiting a response.

BBC

Yakult Swallows outfielder Norichika Aoki has asked to be posted and is awaiting his team's reply.

The New York Times - Sports

He is awaiting a clemency hearing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a reply is awaited" in formal communication when you want to convey a sense of professional expectation. It's suitable for official correspondence or reports.

Common error

Avoid using "a reply is awaited" in casual conversations. It can sound stilted or overly formal in informal settings. Use more direct alternatives like "we're waiting for a reply".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a reply is awaited" functions as a passive construction indicating that someone is expecting a response. Ludwig AI validates this usage as grammatically sound and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a reply is awaited" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that a response is expected, primarily in formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, especially in official or professional settings. While grammatically sound, its passive and formal nature may not be suitable for casual conversation, where more direct alternatives are preferred. The phrase is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media sources. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the desired tone of professionalism and anticipation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a response is expected

Emphasizes the expectation of a response, similar in formality.

a response is anticipated

Highlights the anticipation of a response, slightly more formal.

we are waiting for a response

More direct and less formal than the original phrase.

a response is pending

Focuses on the pending nature of the response, similar formality.

a decision is forthcoming

Implies that a decision, which serves as a response, is nearing.

we await their answer

More direct and slightly less formal, using 'answer' instead of 'reply'.

their answer is pending

Focuses on the pending nature of the answer.

an answer is expected soon

Highlights the expectation that the answer will arrive quickly.

we're expecting to hear back

Very informal and direct, commonly used in casual settings.

still waiting to hear back

Emphasizes the continuation of waiting and implies some duration.

FAQs

How can I use "a reply is awaited" in a sentence?

You can use "a reply is awaited" in formal contexts to indicate that a response is expected. For example: "The headmaster has been asked to make a decision on the matter, and a reply is awaited."

What's the difference between "a reply is awaited" and "we are waiting for a reply"?

"A reply is awaited" is more formal and passive, while "we are waiting for a reply" is more direct and active. The former is better suited for formal written communication, while the latter is appropriate for both written and spoken contexts.

What can I say instead of "a reply is awaited" in a professional email?

You could use alternatives like "a response is expected", "your prompt response would be appreciated", or "we look forward to hearing from you" depending on the level of formality required.

Is it correct to say "a reply is awaited"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. However, its formality might not be suitable for all contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is considered usable in written English, particularly in formal contexts.