pending a reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pending a reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is awaiting a response or answer from someone. Example: "I have sent the email to the client and am currently pending a reply."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The deal is pending a physical.

The New York Times

He remains in jail pending a trial.

The New York Times

pending, a patent Atul Butte.

Nature

Denham replied, instructing Housden to proceed and arguing it was the best course of action for the people of Norwich and Exeter, but delaying a third proposed unitary council in Suffolk pending a debate on what form it should take.

The Guardian

Lang replied that he would not resign, and Game dismissed his government and commissioned the Leader of the Opposition, Bertram Stevens, to form a caretaker government pending a new election, in which Labor was defeated.

Wikipedia

The agreement is pending a physical.

Los Angeles Times

The contract is pending a physical.

Los Angeles Times

Rangers have suspended Derek Llambias, Barry Leach and Sandy Easdale "pending an investigation".

The Guardian - Sport

The cause is unknown pending an autopsy.

The New York Times

We will know more pending an investigation".

SEP

All experiments were halted pending an investigation.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pending a reply", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or decision is being delayed until the reply is received. It is best suited for situations where the reply is crucial for further progress.

Common error

Avoid using "pending a reply" when the subsequent action does not genuinely depend on the reply. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily passive or bureaucratic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pending a reply" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates a state of suspension or anticipation contingent upon receiving a response. As Ludwig reports, it correctly conveys that something is awaiting a response or answer from someone.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pending a reply" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate that progress on something is being held back until a response is received. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. However, its occurrence is relatively infrequent, indicating it is less commonly used compared to alternatives like "awaiting a response" or "waiting for a response". When you choose to use "pending a reply", ensure that the context clearly establishes the dependency on the anticipated response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

awaiting a response

A more formal and direct synonym, suitable for professional contexts.

waiting for a response

A common and straightforward alternative, lacking specific emotional tone.

expecting a reply

Emphasizes anticipation; focuses on the speaker's expectation.

anticipating a response

Highlights anticipation, more formal and emphasizes proactive expectation.

looking forward to a response

Indicates a positive expectation or eagerness.

in expectation of a reply

A more formal and somewhat archaic way to express waiting.

until a response is received

Focuses on the completion of the action after the response arrives.

subject to a response

Highlights that something is conditional on receiving a response.

depending on the reply

Emphasizes that the outcome or next step is contingent on the reply.

conditioned on a reply

Very formal; emphasizes the dependency on a response for further action.

FAQs

What does "pending a reply" mean?

The phrase "pending a reply" means that something is waiting for a response before it can proceed or be completed. It indicates a state of suspension or postponement until a reply is received.

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

You can use "pending a reply" to indicate that an action or decision is being delayed until a response is received. For example, "The project is on hold "pending a reply" from the client."

What are some alternatives to "pending a reply"?

Some alternatives to "pending a reply" include "awaiting a response", "waiting for a response", or "expecting a reply". The best choice depends on the specific context and level of formality.

Is "pending a reply" formal or informal?

"Pending a reply" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. While not overly formal, it is suitable for professional communication. More informal alternatives might include simply "waiting for a response".