for a token reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a token reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is minimal or insincere, often given to fulfill a requirement without genuine engagement. Example: "He sent a message for a token reply, just to acknowledge receipt without any real interest in the conversation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It was 6-0 before Steven Fletcher lifted the ball over the advancing Shay Given for a token reply after 72 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

If a token is released by a node, but the intended recipient did not receive the token reply message, the token is lost.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

I will not settle for a token act.

The New York Times

He asked Osborne, in effect, for a token of seriousness.

The Guardian

To allot just one evening for a token dip into the waters of world music is just that – a token".

Independent

You don't have to be starving to feel that two dollars is a lot to pay for a token, especially now that you don't actually get the token (tokens were eliminated last week, too).

The New Yorker

A line is a line, whether it's for a token or a card.

The New York Times

An interesting aspect of the token transfer procedure is the number of requests generated for a token during each iteration.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

In Malawi all citizens are issued with a "health passport" for a token fee.

Human Resources for Health

He's shown "smiling broadly for an audience," and carrying a "token spade for photo opportunities".

The New York Times

Nodes that receive the announce message reply back with a token request message and include the number of times they have been visited by the token in this request.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "for a token reply" when you want to emphasize the insincerity or inadequacy of a response. It suggests that the reply was given merely to satisfy a requirement, without genuine engagement or consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "for a token reply" in highly formal or professional writing where a more neutral or diplomatic tone is expected. Instead, opt for phrases like "as a gesture of acknowledgment" or "as a minimal answer" to maintain professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a token reply" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which a response is given. It indicates that the reply is insincere or minimal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a token reply" is a grammatically correct but rare expression used to describe an insincere or minimal response, primarily in News & Media and Scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. When using this phrase, it's essential to consider the context to avoid overly critical or cynical tones. Related phrases include "as a minimal answer" or "for form's sake". Be mindful of the tone, as it can come across as critical. While grammatically sound, it's best to use the phrase judiciously, favoring alternatives in more formal or professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a perfunctory response

Emphasizes the routine and superficial nature of the reply.

as a minimal answer

Focuses on the brevity and lack of detail in the reply.

as a superficial response

Highlights the lack of depth and sincerity in the reply.

as a symbolic answer

Suggests the reply is merely representative and lacks substance.

as a gesture of acknowledgment

Indicates the reply is primarily a way to recognize something without genuine engagement.

for form's sake

Highlights that the reply is done purely out of obligation.

as a mere formality

Indicates the reply is required but not meaningful.

as a nod in passing

Implies a very brief and insignificant reply.

for the sake of appearances

The reply is given to create a certain impression, not out of genuine interest.

to fulfill an obligation

Focuses on the compulsory nature of the reply.

FAQs

How can I use "for a token reply" in a sentence?

You can use "for a token reply" to indicate that someone responded insincerely or minimally, such as, "He sent a message "for a token reply", just to acknowledge receipt without any real interest in the conversation."

What phrases are similar to "for a token reply"?

Similar phrases include "as a minimal answer", "as a superficial response", or "for form's sake". Each of these highlights the lack of substance or sincerity in the response.

When is it appropriate to use "for a token reply"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that a response was given out of obligation rather than genuine interest or engagement. Be mindful of the context, as it may come across as critical or cynical.

Is "for a token reply" considered formal or informal?

"For a token reply" leans towards informal usage due to its critical undertones. In more formal settings, consider alternatives like "as a mere formality" or "as a symbolic answer" to maintain a professional tone.