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Definitions

response

[ri-spons] / rɪˈspɒns /


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for response?
A response is a reply or an answer—something said or done after someone else has said or done something. Like response, reply and answer can be used in the context of verbal responses (such as in speech or writing) as well as actions. The word acknowledgement refers to a response that simply acknowledges an initial message or action (as opposed to one that consists of new information or an action on the part of the one responding). Some responses come in the form of feedback. A reply to a comment—especially a quick and witty reply—is sometimes called a comeback, retort, rejoinder, or riposte. A response to an invitation is popularly called an RSVP, an abbreviation of the French phrase répondez s'il vous plaît, meaning “please respond.” In military and sports contexts, the word response is sometimes used as a general way of referring to a counterattack or counterstroke.
What is a more formal word for response?
Response is perhaps slightly more formal than its synonyms answer and reply, but there isn’t a more formal word that is commonly used. The more formal word rejoinder is sometimes used in specific legal contexts. A formal (as in an official) response is sometimes called a formal reply or an official reply.
What is the opposite (antonym) of response?
The opposite of a response is a nonresponse—when someone doesn’t reply or answer at all. The term lack of response is often used. In another sense, the opposite of a response could be thought of as the initial question, statement, comment, email, etc.—since this is what the response responds to.
Is it responce or response?
Response is spelled with an s, which you can also see in the related words responsive, responsible, and responsibility.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

The BBC has made efforts to contact the owners and occupants but has received no response.

From BBC Aug. 15, 2026

Although this response helps preserve that balance, maintaining it over long periods could have physiological effects.

From Science Daily Aug. 15, 2026

In its statement, DHS denied HSI has neglected its core mission, saying the agency has increased its efforts to combat criminal cartels, gangs and drug traffickers in response to multiple Trump executive orders.

From Salon Aug. 15, 2026

“We are so grateful that our team members and contractors are safe,” Dunleavy said, “and we really appreciate the swift response from local law enforcement.”

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 15, 2026

“It’s nice to meet you, Candace,” I reply, not sure what the right response should be.

From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold

"The sex differences observed in OPA1 responses and obesity susceptibility may help inform the development of obesity treatments that take them into account, as well as future personalized medicine approaches."

From Science Daily Aug. 13, 2026

American AI companies say they take steps to ensure neutral responses that protect free speech.

From The Wall Street Journal Aug. 13, 2026

"Opting people in by default is not consent," a user said in one of the tamer responses to Twitch's announcement on X.

From Barron's Aug. 13, 2026

The initiative was approved by the Board of Supervisors in 2016 as a temporary way to analyze systemic issues that cause inequitable gender treatment and outcomes, and identify responses to help address those concerns.

From Los Angeles Times Aug. 11, 2026

Their responses are going to come flying through my phone, so I tuck it into my bag.

From "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi




Vocabulary lists containing response


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