retorted

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "retorted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when responding to someone in a sharp or witty manner, often in a conversation or debate. Example: "When he accused her of being late, she retorted that he was the one who had forgotten the meeting time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is not an episode of Celebrity Big Brother," retorted Gillard.

The Guardian

They've retorted with a bold poster campaign: "Steven Holl's perpetually blank canvas: who are we preserving this space for?" However the famous library is rebuilt, will it ever be more than a shrine to the ghost of Mackintosh?

The Guardian - Arts

Taylor was said to have been 'disappointed' in the Prime Minister's attitude but O'Callaghan retorted: 'And do you think Blair is happy with you?' In recent days O'Callaghan has been lobbying UUP members who are uncertain which way to vote next Saturday when the 860-strong party council decides if it will return to government, sharing power with Sinn Fein.

The Guardian

The signs said: 'Bratton, control your cops.' I retorted: 'I'll control my cops; you control your kids.' The reason my cops are engaging with your kids is because in some respects you've let your kids get out of control – to the extent that I now have to effectively, in some instances, do what the parenting failed to do".

The Guardian

He retorted that he merely desired effective policing with nationalist minority community participation.

The Guardian

HMRC retorted that the National Audit Office should investigate the claims.

The Guardian

A spokesman from film distributor Revolver retorted defensively, "People were respectful and didn't trample on any old ladies".

The Guardian - Opinion

To the imperialists shouting "Après moi, le deluge," Gandhi famously retorted, "Leave India to God".

The Guardian - Opinion

The association retorted by threatening to sue the lawyer – don't put the kettle on before that happens – for his claims that the governing body is biased, dishonest and dysfunctional.

The Guardian - Sport

However, Bevan merely retorted that men of Celtic fire were needed to bring about great reforms like the new NHS.

The Guardian

Williams retorted with infuriated hacks.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "retorted" when you want to convey a sense of quick, often sharp or witty response in a dialogue or narrative to add intensity or conflict. For example: "When asked about his controversial decision, he "retorted", 'I stand by my choices'."

Common error

Avoid using "retorted" in contexts that require a neutral or polite response. The word carries a connotation of defiance or sharpness, which may be inappropriate for formal or friendly exchanges. Prefer alternatives like "said" or "replied" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "retorted" is as a verb, specifically the past tense and past participle of "retort". It indicates a sharp, angry, or witty response to a statement or accusation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "retorted" functions as a verb to describe a sharp or quick-witted reply, typically in response to a challenging statement. Ludwig AI confirms that it is appropriate in written English. Its usage is most prevalent in news and media, where conveying the tone and dynamics of an exchange is crucial. When employing "retorted", it's essential to ensure that the context aligns with its inherent connotation of a somewhat defensive or confrontational response. Although "retorted" is considered grammatically correct, be mindful of its implications in professional or amicable settings, opting for a more neutral phrase when necessary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

replied sharply

Emphasizes the pointed or critical nature of the response.

fired back

Implies a forceful and immediate verbal retaliation.

shot back

Suggests a rapid and often aggressive response.

countered

Stresses the act of opposing or negating a previous statement.

snapped back

Conveys a sudden and irritated response.

answered back

Implies a defensive or argumentative reaction.

rejoined

Indicates a formal and often witty reply.

responded quickly

Focuses on the speed of the answer, lacking the confrontational tone.

came back with

Highlights the act of countering with a specific statement or argument.

quipped

Suggests a clever and humorous response, often sarcastic.

FAQs

How to use "retorted" in a sentence?

"Retorted" is used to indicate a sharp or witty reply. For example: "When accused of being unprepared, she "retorted" that she had anticipated the question."

What can I say instead of "retorted"?

You can use alternatives like "replied sharply", "responded quickly", or "answered back" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "retorted" or "said"?

Both "retorted" and "said" are correct, but they have different connotations. "Said" is a neutral term, while "retorted" implies a sharp or quick reply, often in response to criticism or an accusation.

What's the difference between "retorted" and "replied"?

"Replied" is a general term for answering, while ""retorted"" suggests a more immediate and defensive response. The difference lies in the tone and situation of the communication.