Reply Meaning and Usage Explained with Examples

Meaning 1：answer (Reply)

Reply 🔊

/rɪˈplaɪ/

To say or write something as an answer to someone.

Person replying to a text message on smartphone smiling

answer 🔊

➕

/ˈænsər/

To give a spoken or written response to a question or message.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Derived from Latin 'replicare' meaning 'to fold back', later evolved to 'respond'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 're-' (again) + 'ply' (fold) → fold back an answer.

📖 Example

I asked if he wanted coffee, and he replied "Yes, please!" with a big smile. 🔊 I asked if he wanted coffee, and he replied "Yes, please!" with a big smile.

🔗 Collocations

reply to – to respond to a person or message

reply with – to respond using a particular word or action

reply promptly – to answer quickly

🔄 Synonyms

respond (v.) – to say or do something as a reaction to something said or done

answer (v.) – to speak or write back to someone who has asked a question

retort (v.) – to reply quickly, often in a sharp or witty way

🚫 Antonyms

ignore (v.) – to refuse to acknowledge or respond

🌱 Derivatives

replier (n.) – a person who replies

unreplied (adj.) – not replied to

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Latin 'replicare' (to fold back). In medieval legal English, 'reply' meant a formal response in court. Now common in everyday communication.