fair reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a response that is just, reasonable, or appropriate in a given context. Example: "After considering all the arguments, I believe that his response was a fair reply to the criticism he received."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Better than what?" would be a fair reply.

The Economist

To which one fair reply would be: it depends how far you want to let feature films determine the rules of the game.

The Guardian - Film

"A fair reply to what we have done would have been some acknowledgment of the achievement," said Mullah Muhammad Hassan, the governor of Kandahar Province and one of the Taliban's top figures.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And if he says (as he probably will), "That's below my cost; I have to make a profit," just reply, "I know what a fair price is.

Vice

It seems fair to reply, however, that a decision not to resuscitate does not mean that resuscitation is impossible as suggested by the concept of irreversibility.

SEP

Is that fair?" Mr. Caruso replied, "That's correct".

The New York Times

"He was a man who fought and died for what he thought was fair," Granado replied.

The Guardian

"Gabriel, what do you think of the term 'learning difference'?" "I think it's fair," he replies.

The New York Times

("Arthur, what do you say to people who criticize the way a rich man like you behaves in a recession?" a journalist asks him in Scene 1. "They have a fair point," replies Arthur. "We must end this recession").

The New York Times

"It's a career fair," she replied.

Science Magazine

Asked if he felt his punishment was fair, Warburton replied: "Yeah, I think it is".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fair reply", ensure the context clearly establishes the criteria for fairness being applied. This adds credibility to the assessment of the reply.

Common error

Avoid using "fair reply" merely as a filler; ensure the response genuinely embodies impartiality and justice. A generic positive adjective like 'good' or 'reasonable' might be more appropriate if the response doesn't specifically address fairness.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "fair reply" is to act as a noun phrase, where "fair" modifies the noun "reply". It describes the quality or characteristic of the reply, indicating its just or equitable nature. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fair reply" serves as a noun phrase indicating a just or reasonable response. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans various contexts, particularly in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal settings. When employing the phrase, ensure the context clarifies the criteria for fairness to enhance its impact. Be careful to avoid overusing "fair" as a mere qualifier without genuine implications of impartiality. Consider alternatives like "reasonable response" or "just answer" to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable response

Emphasizes the logical and justifiable nature of the response.

just answer

Highlights the impartiality and ethical correctness of the reply.

equitable rejoinder

Focuses on the balanced and unbiased quality of the answer.

appropriate response

Indicates that the reply is suitable and fitting for the situation.

impartial answer

Stresses the neutrality and lack of bias in the reply.

unbiased response

Similar to "impartial answer", but emphasizes the absence of prejudice.

legitimate answer

Implies that the reply is valid and in accordance with rules or principles.

valid response

Highlights the correctness and well-founded nature of the reply.

sound reply

Stresses the sensible and rational nature of the response.

justified response

Focuses on the presence of sufficient grounds or reasons for the reply.

FAQs

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

You can use "fair reply" to describe a response that is just, reasonable, or appropriate in a given context. For example, "After considering all arguments, his response was a fair reply to the criticism."

What are some alternatives to "fair reply"?

Alternatives include "reasonable response", "just answer", or "appropriate response", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "fair reply" formal or informal?

"Fair reply" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "equitable rejoinder".

What does it mean for a reply to be considered "fair"?

A "fair reply" is one that is unbiased, impartial, and takes into account all relevant perspectives or information. It suggests a level of objectivity and justness in the response.