retort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retort" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a quick, witty, or sharp reply, often in response to a comment or criticism. Example: "When he insulted her, she had a clever retort ready that left everyone in the room laughing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One note read: "I can take five more weeks of attacks on me, but the British people can't take five more years of you" – almost certainly a retort aimed at prime minister David Cameron, who has launched personal attacks on the Labour leader.

The Guardian

At one stage he said that whenever he criticised his Conservative colleagues in the House of Lords – about, for instance, the commercialisation of the National Health Service, the neglect of housebuilding or light-touch regulation of the financial system – they were always  able to retort that New Labour had started it.

The Guardian

And if they do, they'll be so busy plucking at their poxy sequins on their new dress you'll have plenty of time to think of a satisfying retort·.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Similarly, he was unable to find it within himself to let the makers of Rob Roy and Braveheart down more gently than he did with his retort to the offer of a part: 'I don't want to be some hairy-arsed Highlander charging up a hill!'.

The Guardian - Film

"I might as well retire" was the early retort from Brownlee as he paused for a well-earned breather after high-fiving the waiting spectators who greeted his performance of 1hr 48min 50sec with the applause it deserved.

The Guardian - Sport

My first instinct was to retort: "Why do you focus on the slums and not on the positive stories?

The Guardian - Opinion

"Ah, but it's traditional for the woman to change," they might retort: "neither of us really think it's that important, but we wanted to have the same name, and it just made more sense to go with tradition".

The Guardian - Books

One might expect Tommy to retort with "Well, that's the sound we like" or something like that, but Tommy does not take the defensive.

The Guardian - Music

Under this scenario, no significant laws will be passed until after the presidential election in 2016.Optimists retort that once Republicans control both arms of Congress, they cannot just snarl from the sidelines.

The Economist

But the solution to this is not to shut off exports: it is to impose tougher environmental laws that make polluters pay.Environmentalists retort that free trade itself prevents countries from doing this.

The Economist

Of this, the only sign so far is a joint policy on climate change.The alliance is a retort to Mercosur, but a tacit one.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "retort" when you want to convey a sense of quick wit or a sharp, defensive response to a statement or accusation. It's effective in depicting lively exchanges and highlighting intellectual agility.

Common error

Avoid using "retort" in situations where a neutral or simple answer is expected. The word implies a level of sharpness or defensiveness that can be inappropriate in polite or professional settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "retort" is to act as a verb describing the act of replying sharply or wittily. It can also function as a noun, referring to the sharp or witty reply itself. Ludwig AI validates its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "retort" is a versatile word, functioning as both a verb and a noun, to describe a sharp, witty, or incisive response. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is frequently found in News & Media contexts, suggesting a neutral to formal register. When using "retort", consider the context to ensure the implied sharpness is appropriate. Alternatives like "rejoinder" or "comeback" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

witty rejoinder

Emphasizes the clever and humorous aspect of the answer.

clever riposte

Focuses on the skill and ingenuity involved in crafting the response.

sharp reply

Focuses on the pointed and direct nature of the response.

incisive response

Stresses the penetrating and clear quality of the reply.

quick comeback

Highlights the speed and immediacy of the response.

pointed answer

Underscores the direct and relevant nature of the reply.

cutting remark

Highlights the potentially hurtful or critical aspect of the response.

terse reply

Emphasizes the brief and concise nature of the answer.

sarcastic answer

Highlights the use of irony or mockery in the response.

acidic comment

Stresses the bitter or sharp tone of the response.

FAQs

How can I use "retort" in a sentence?

You can use "retort" as a verb to describe the act of making a sharp reply, as in, "She "retorted" to his accusation with a witty remark." Alternatively, you can use it as a noun to refer to the reply itself, such as, "Her "retort" silenced the room."

What is a good alternative to "retort"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "retort" include "rejoinder", "comeback", "riposte", or simply "reply" or "answer". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the word "retort"?

"Retort" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the quick-witted or sharp nature of a response, often in reaction to criticism or an accusation. It suggests a degree of intellectual sparring or defense.

What's the difference between "retort" and "respond"?

"Respond" is a general term for answering or reacting to something. "Retort" specifically implies a sharp, witty, or incisive response, often in reply to an accusation or criticism. A "retort" is a type of "response", but not all responses are retorts.