retort with

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "retort with" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when responding to someone, typically in a sharp or witty manner. Example: "When he insulted her, she quickly retorted with a clever comeback that left everyone laughing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

When homeowners shout to them to leave, they retort with curses and sometimes throw stones.

The New York Times

Chinese observers of India retort with anecdotes of Indian political meddling against their country's firms.

The Economist

Ask about the Iranian nuclear program, he'll retort with Israel's undeclared nuclear arsenal.

The New York Times

The pager will retort with a weak beep, having clearly gotten the message.

The New York Times

They dared not complain, lest Mother Nature retort with a hailstorm of proof golf is an outdoor sport.

The New York Times - Sports

The home fans at least managed their own retort, with a cry of, "You'll never play in England".

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Williams retorted with infuriated hacks.

The Guardian - Sport

Stalin retorted with an expletive.

The New York Times - Arts

"You think that was real?" he retorted with a smile.

The New York Times

Smallweed retorts with obsequious loyalty: In the Guardian?

The Guardian - Books

Alexander Pope satirized Hill in The Dunciad, to which Hill retorted with The Progress of Wit (1730).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and tone when using "retort with"; it's suitable for situations where a quick, often defensive, response is expected.

Common error

Avoid using "retort with" in formal or professional settings where a more neutral term like "respond with" or "reply with" would be more appropriate. "Retort with" implies a level of sharpness that might be unsuitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "retort with" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a direct and often sharp response to a previous statement or action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid English expression. The examples from Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, all highlighting a reactive and sometimes defensive reply.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "retort with" is a commonly used phrase that describes a sharp, quick, and direct response. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a valid expression in English, predominantly found in news and media contexts. While grammatically correct, it's essential to consider the tone and context, reserving its use for situations where a sharp or witty response is appropriate. Alternatives like "reply with" or "respond with" may be more suitable for formal settings. Understanding these nuances will ensure effective and contextually appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respond with

Similar to 'reply', but slightly more formal.

reply with

Changes the verb to a more neutral synonym for responding.

rejoin with

Implies a return to a conversation or argument.

counter with

Indicates a response that aims to negate or oppose a previous statement.

answer with

Offers a general way to describe providing a response.

rebut with

Specifically indicates a response that challenges or disproves a point.

come back with

An informal way to describe a quick or witty response.

throw back with

Offers an immediate or defensive response.

snap back with

Suggests a sharp, immediate, and potentially angry response.

defend with

Highlights the defensive nature of the response.

FAQs

What does it mean to "retort with" something?

To "retort with" something means to reply sharply or quickly, often in response to a criticism or challenge. It suggests a direct and sometimes defensive reaction.

How can I use "retort with" in a sentence?

You can use "retort with" to show that someone is responding in a sharp or quick way, such as: "When he insulted her, she quickly "replied with" a clever comeback."

What can I say instead of "retort with"?

You can use alternatives like "reply with", "respond with", or "answer with" depending on the context.

Is "retort with" a formal or informal expression?

"Retort with" is generally considered less formal than "reply with" or "respond with". It's best suited for situations where a bit of sharpness or wit is appropriate.