a timely reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a timely reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when requesting or acknowledging a response that is given within an appropriate or expected timeframe. Example: "I appreciate your efforts in providing a timely reply to my inquiry regarding the project status."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The number of copies cannot exceed more than one copy per pupil, and a notice of copyright must be affixed to each copy.General Rule: Copies and their actual classroom use must be so close together in time that it would be unreasonable to expect a timely reply to a permission request.

Columbia University

Spontaneity requires that "the inspiration and decision to use the work and the moment of its use for maximum teaching effectiveness [be] so close in time that it would be unreasonable to expect a timely reply to a request for permission". Id. at 69, U.S.Code Cong.

Harvard University

But these days, they may not always receive a timely reply.

The New York Times

Irving also claims aggravated damages on the grounds that The Observer failed to publish a timely reply by him to the article and that Sereny had pursued a campaign of defamation against him for nearly 20 years.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The asker will appreciate a courteous, timely reply more than one that arrives several days after the question was asked or one that seems condescending or like you feel really put out by answering the question.

WikiHow

The message should be broadcasted in order to acquire timely reply while the reply is sent by unicast.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Give our thanks to the authors of the cited articles timely reply our questions and SHANG Hongcai professor's for his careful guidance.

Plosone

One CHN shared, "There should be dedicated persons to respond to consultations at the hub centres… so that we can get timely reply on the cases that we refer.

BMC Nursing

Sometime when patients come back to us for follow up of their consultation, we have to say sorry to them because we don't receive timely reply for our desired queries and consultations".

BMC Nursing

I agree, but would counter that it's a lot easier to get timely replies from subjects when they hear the name Adobe.

Forbes

Reply to all messages in a timely manner.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When requesting information, specify the desired timeframe for "a timely reply" to ensure clarity and meet expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "a timely reply" when a more specific term like "immediate response" or "detailed answer" would better convey the required level of thoroughness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a timely reply" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'timely' modifies the noun 'reply'. It denotes a response given within an appropriate or suitable timeframe. Ludwig examples showcase this usage in contexts ranging from academic permissions to job applications.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a timely reply" signifies a response delivered within an appropriate or expected timeframe. As Ludwig's analysis indicates, it is grammatically correct and functions as an adjective-noun phrase. The phrase's usage is relatively uncommon, found across various contexts including news media, academia, and scientific publications. To enhance communication, one should specify the desired timeframe for a reply. When context is not sufficient a more precise alternative like "immediate response" should be used. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and provides examples of its usage across diverse domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prompt response

Emphasizes quickness and readiness in answering.

a speedy answer

Highlights the fast nature of the response.

a quick response

Focuses on the brevity of the answering time.

a timely acknowledgement

Stresses the acknowledging given at the right moment.

a swift reply

Implies that the response was delivered rapidly and efficiently.

an immediate answer

Stresses that the response was provided without any delay.

a fast response

Indicates a reply given in short time.

a rapid answer

Highlights the quickness of the received reply.

a well-timed response

Implies that the response was not only prompt but also appropriate for the situation.

a prompt acknowledgement

Focuses on the rapidness of acknowledging something.

FAQs

What is meant by "a timely reply"?

The phrase "a timely reply" refers to a response that is given within an appropriate or expected timeframe, showing consideration for the urgency or importance of the initial request.

What can I say instead of "a timely reply"?

You can use alternatives like "a prompt response", "a speedy answer", or "a quick response" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to expect "a timely reply"?

It is appropriate to expect "a timely reply" when a request requires urgent attention, when a deadline is involved, or when the lack of a response could cause inconvenience or delays.

How does "a timely reply" differ from an immediate response?

"A timely reply" suggests a response given within a reasonable timeframe, while an immediate response implies an answer given without any delay. The specific meaning can vary depending on context.