slow reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The expression "slow reply" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone takes a long time to respond to a message. For example: I sent my friend a message, but I received a slow reply a few days later.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Better a slow reply than a quick one that you instantly regret sending.

The Guardian

April 9, 2003, email from Miranda to Kavanaugh and a colleague: "Brett, sorry for the slow reply to your message.

The Washington Post

Fixated on a friend's slow reply on Facebook and wondering if it means they don't like me.

The Guardian - Opinion

A long or speedy reply can make someone sound too eager; a terse or slow reply might seem standoffish.

The New York Times - Tech

Krakow, JS: Sorry for the slow reply, when I saw your mention of pork knuckles (golonka) I just had to nip out and have one at Hawelka (ul. Rynek Glowny 34, [phone]).

The Guardian - Travel

If it's a slow reply for you, it means she is interested, and wants you to hang around longer and is comfortable with you.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But soon after they departed, WhatsApp started charging businesses for slow replies, and it will inject ads into the WhatsApp's Stories product Status next year.

TechCrunch

Only charging for slow replies after 24 hours since a user's last message is a genius way to create a growth feedback loop.

TechCrunch

"Sorry I've been so slow replying," he wrote.

Huffington Post

When Mr. Mazaev was slow to reply, he added: "Hey, stop ignoring me.

The New York Times

Yours gratefully, Kenneth Dear Kenneth, I am sorry I have been so slow to reply.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you anticipate a delay in your response, it is a good practice to inform the sender beforehand. This manages expectations and maintains good communication.

Common error

Never assume the sender understands why your response is slow. Always provide a brief explanation to avoid misunderstandings or frustration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slow reply" functions as a noun phrase, where "slow" modifies the noun "reply". Ludwig shows it's used to describe the timing of a response.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "slow reply" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe a delayed response. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is used across various contexts, including News & Media, Wiki and Science. While not extremely common, it effectively conveys the message that a response was not prompt. When using this phrase, it is important to consider the context and whether an explanation for the delay is necessary. Alternatives such as "delayed response" or "late reply" may be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delayed response

Emphasizes the delay in responding, focusing on the timing.

late reply

Focuses on the fact that the reply arrived after the expected time.

delayed answer

Focuses on the delay in providing the answer.

response after a delay

Clearly indicates that the reply was given following a period of waiting.

response after some time

Indicates the reply was received after a certain duration had passed.

tardy response

Highlights the lateness or unpunctuality of the reply.

belated response

Stresses that the reply came later than it should have.

protracted response

Implies the reply took an unexpectedly long time.

tardy answer

Highlights the lateness of providing the answer.

lingering reply

Suggests the reply was unusually slow in coming.

FAQs

How can I apologize for a "slow reply"?

You can start by acknowledging the delay and providing a brief reason, such as "Sorry for the "slow reply", I've been swamped with other tasks."

What does it mean if someone gives a "slow reply"?

A "slow reply" typically means the person took longer than expected to respond. There could be many reasons, such as being busy, needing more time to consider their answer, or simply forgetting to reply promptly.

What are some alternative phrases for "slow reply"?

Alternatives include "delayed response", "late reply", or "tardy response". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it rude to give a "slow reply"?

While it's generally considered polite to respond promptly, a "slow reply" isn't inherently rude, especially if the reason for the delay is valid and communicated. However, consistently slow replies without explanation can be perceived as impolite.