an appropriate reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an appropriate reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a response that is suitable or fitting for a particular situation or context. Example: "In response to the criticism, she provided an appropriate reply that addressed all concerns raised."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's difficult to come up with an appropriate reply to that.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I told them, 'Be strong, be men.' " When he heard news of the attack he was pleased, he said, because "it was an appropriate reply to the assassination" of his friends.

The New York Times

Alternatively when Chinese patients were given by authoritative figures an opportunity to make their own decision, they might interpret it as an order for admission because they tended to believe that they were expected to give an "appropriate" reply.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Asked by The Torontoist if dispatching a helicopter was an appropriate response to candy theft, Constable Andy Pattenden replied, "Yeah, sure.

Huffington Post

Emailing colleagues – even when they're sitting just a few metres away – feels safer for two reasons: you have the protective bubble of a time delay, allowing you to think up a sensible, appropriate reply.

The Guardian - Money

only appropriate referrals, that is requests that fall within his or her areas of expertise; sufficient information about the patient to permit an appropriate response to be provided; information about the local context to provide a reply that is well adapted to circumstances; and feedback from the referrer about the reply and/or subsequent follow-up data about the patient.

Global Health Action

The expert would like: only appropriate referrals, that is requests that fall within his or her areas of expertise; sufficient information about the patient to permit an appropriate response to be provided; information about the local context to provide a reply that is well adapted to circumstances; and feedback from the referrer about the reply and/or subsequent follow-up data about the patient.

Global Health Action

This is suggested by the fact that it is appropriate to reply to the assertion with, "How do you know?" (Williamson 1996), while that is not an appropriate response to the conjecture (Green 2009).

SEP

Find an appropriate response.

WikiHow

Although the MWFT performed poorer in the cognitive facets A1, A2 and A3, they still managed to produce an appropriate email reply with regard to domain-specific language, communication standards, structure and formal standards.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

If your 5-year-old asks how much money you make, and you make tons, then the appropriate reply is, "That is not a nice question".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When crafting a response, consider the context and audience to ensure your reply is not only accurate but also well-received. The most effective reply is often one that anticipates the recipient's needs and expectations.

Common error

Avoid providing a canned or generic answer; tailor your reply to the specific circumstances and the individual you're addressing. A response that is appropriate in one situation may be completely unsuitable in another.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an appropriate reply" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, indicating something is deemed suitable for a given situation. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an appropriate reply" signifies a response that is fitting and well-suited to a particular situation. As Ludwig's AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and versatile, appearing in news, scientific, and general contexts. While not exceedingly common, it is a useful expression for emphasizing the importance of relevance and suitability in communication. Remember to tailor your responses to the context and audience, ensuring your reply is both accurate and well-received.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a suitable response

Emphasizes the fitting nature of the answer.

a fitting answer

Highlights how well the response corresponds to the situation.

a proper response

Indicates that the answer adheres to expected standards of correctness.

a relevant answer

Focuses on how the reply directly addresses the question or issue.

a well-suited answer

Highlights how well the reply matches the requirements of the situation.

a pertinent rejoinder

Suggests the reply is directly relevant and well-timed.

an accurate reply

Focuses on the correctness and truthfulness of the response.

a considered response

Suggests that the reply was carefully thought out before being given.

an apt retort

Implies a clever and effective response, often in a debate.

a justified answer

Indicates that the answer is supported by good reasons or evidence.

FAQs

How can I ensure my response is "an appropriate reply"?

Consider the context, your audience, and the purpose of your communication. Tailor your response to directly address the matter at hand, while also considering the tone and level of formality expected. Before answering pause and think about your audience.

What's the difference between "an appropriate reply" and "a suitable response"?

While both phrases are similar, "an appropriate reply" emphasizes fitting the specific context, while "a suitable response" suggests a more general fitness or correctness. The choice depends on whether you want to highlight contextual relevance or overall suitability.

What are some alternatives to "an appropriate reply" in a formal setting?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "a considered response" or "a justified answer". These options convey thoughtfulness and a reasoned approach.

Is it always necessary to give "an appropriate reply" immediately?

Not necessarily. In some situations, it's better to take time to consider your response, especially if the matter is complex or emotionally charged. A delayed, well-thought-out response is often more effective than an immediate, ill-considered one.