a spirited reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a spirited reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a response that is lively, enthusiastic, or full of energy, often in a discussion or debate. Example: "After hearing the criticism, she gave a spirited reply that defended her position passionately."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Davutoglu gave a spirited reply, that "of course" Turkey was aware of this risk.

The Guardian

In what the cable's author described as "a spirited reply," Davutoglu insisted that Turkey was well aware of the risk.

The New York Times - Magazine

She published a spirited reply, suggesting that if Franaszek did not like today's poetry, perhaps he should not review it.

Stanford University

Half-centuries from Nick Knight (70), Ian Bell (50) and Jim Troughton (53) led a spirited reply, but the visitors were eventually bowled out for 229 in the 41st over.

The Guardian - Sport

Despite a spirited reply from Locke's young side, Gary Mackay-Steven fired in United's third, then John Rankin scored with the last kick of the ball to seal the 4-1 win - although Locke insists he preferred to lose big than sit back and accept a narrow defeat.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Archives|PARIS DEFIES GERMAN BOMBS.; Henri Berenger's Spirited Reply to Aeroplane Attacks.

The New York Times

PARIS DEFIES GERMAN BOMBS.; Henri Berenger's Spirited Reply to Aeroplane Attacks.

The New York Times

It was Cédric Villani, a 37-year-old professor at Lyon who won the 2010 Fields Medal, who gave the most spirited reply to France's critics.

The New York Times

Ed Miliband, in his spirited reply, reminded them of it, attacking "the trust fund chancellor and the Bullingdon Club prime minister".

The Guardian - Opinion

Glamorgan's total was the highest in T20 cricket at the Oval, while Surrey's spirited reply meant the aggregate of runs scored was the highest in an English domestic Twenty20 match.

BBC

As one heckler put it at the town hall meeting: "You've got a year!" A spirited Marsch replied: "I'll take it!" He won the Shield and took his team to within a post's width of extra time in the Conference final.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a spirited reply" to characterize a response that is not only an answer but also shows enthusiasm and conviction. It's suitable when the emotional tone of the response is as important as the information it conveys.

Common error

Avoid using "a spirited reply" in highly formal or academic writing where a more neutral or objective tone is expected. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "a detailed response" or "a comprehensive answer".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a spirited reply" functions as a noun phrase where "spirited" modifies the noun "reply". It emphasizes the manner in which the reply was given, highlighting its energy and enthusiasm. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Sport

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A spirited reply" is a phrase used to describe a response characterized by energy, enthusiasm, and conviction. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. While relatively rare, it commonly appears in news and media contexts, as well as in academic and sports-related writing. It's important to reserve this phrase for situations where the manner of the reply—its liveliness and passion—is as noteworthy as its content. Consider alternatives like "an animated response" or "a lively answer" for similar effects, and be mindful of avoiding it in highly formal contexts where a more neutral tone is preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an animated response

Focuses on the liveliness and energy of the response.

a lively answer

Highlights the energetic and vibrant nature of the reply.

a vigorous response

Emphasizes the strength and forcefulness of the reply.

an enthusiastic rejoinder

Stresses the eagerness and passion in the answer.

a passionate retort

Highlights the intense emotion and conviction behind the response.

a feisty comeback

Suggests a bold and spirited attempt to counter an argument or criticism.

a fervent answer

Focuses on the intensity and sincerity of the reply.

a spunky reaction

Implies a courageous and determined response, often in the face of adversity.

a bold riposte

Emphasizes the confident and assertive nature of the reply.

an energetic response

Highlights the high level of activity and vitality in the reply.

FAQs

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

You can use "a spirited reply" to describe a response that is lively, enthusiastic, or full of energy. For example: "After hearing the criticism, she gave "a spirited reply" that defended her position passionately."

What are some alternatives to "a spirited reply"?

Alternatives include "an animated response", "a lively answer", or "a vigorous response", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a spirited reply"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize not just the content of the response, but also the energy and enthusiasm with which it was delivered. It's suitable for describing debates, discussions, or even sports commentary.

Is "a spirited reply" formal or informal?

"A spirited reply" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in various contexts, but it's best suited for situations where enthusiasm and energy are relevant. Avoid it in highly formal or academic writing where objectivity is key.