holding reply

USAGE SUMMARY

"holding reply" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in the context of expecting a reply from someone and temporarily "holding" that expectation until you hear back from them. For example, "We'll have to wait on their holding reply before we can make any decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The MP for Birkenhead and former Labour minister still has had no reply from seven, and a holding reply from an eighth.

Independent

So try to recognise such messages and acknowledge that you need to plan them in properly (sending a holding reply if necessary).

The Guardian

Mr Field said he had received a holding reply from Starbucks but no response from Caffè Nero, Papa John's, Wimpy, Pizza Hut, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Burger King or McDonald's.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The announcement distributed by the Tass news agency did not give a date for the resumption of the tests, but it repeated the propaganda claim that they were only being held to reply to the current American series.

The New York Times

"I respectfully disagree," Holdren replied.

Science Magazine

"We'd be happy to do that," Holdren replied.

Science Magazine

"There is no question that there will be job losses," Holdren replied.

Science Magazine

Asked over a field telephone how close the Nazis were to him, he is said to have replied, "Just hold the phone and I'll let you talk to one of the bastards".

The New York Times

This is the same thing with replying to emails; if you're angry at someone for sending you a particular message, hold off replying until you have calmed down.

WikiHow

Asked how many bodies the broken hull of the Titanic might hold, Dr. Ballard replied: "Dozens.

The New York Times - Science

When Vanessa asks where the benefit is being held, Gabriela replies, "Somewhere called the Frick.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "holding reply", clearly indicate when a full response can be expected to manage expectations effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "holding reply" without setting a timeframe for the full response, as it can lead to uncertainty and frustration for the recipient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "holding reply" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a temporary or preliminary response. As Ludwig indicates, it is considered correct English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "holding reply" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a temporary or preliminary response. According to Ludwig, it's considered correct English, although its frequency is rare. While understandable in various contexts, it’s best suited for neutral to professional communication and should be accompanied by a clear timeframe for a complete response. Consider alternatives such as "interim response" or "acknowledgment response" in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary reply

Directly indicates the non-permanent nature of the response.

interim response

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the reply.

preliminary reply

Suggests the response is an initial step before a more detailed answer.

acknowledgment response

Focuses on the act of acknowledging receipt without providing a full answer.

provisional reply

Implies the response is subject to change or further confirmation.

placeholder response

Highlights the reply's function as a substitute for a more complete answer.

short acknowledgment

Focuses on the brevity of the acknowledgment

initial acknowledgment

Highlights the beginning stage of the response process.

status update reply

Focuses on giving an overview of the current status.

awaiting further information

Expresses the status of waiting for additional details before a full reply.

FAQs

How can I use "holding reply" in a professional email?

You might say, "Thank you for your email. I've received it and will send a full "temporary reply" within 2 business days."

What's a more formal alternative to "holding reply"?

A more formal option would be "preliminary response" or "interim response", especially in official communications.

Is it appropriate to use "holding reply" in all contexts?

While generally acceptable, "holding reply" might be too informal for very formal or sensitive situations. Consider using a more professional term like "acknowledgment response" instead.

What does it mean to send a "holding reply"?

Sending a "holding reply" means providing a temporary or "placeholder response" to acknowledge receipt of a message and indicate that a more detailed reply will follow.