react
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /riˈækt/
KK: /riˈækt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To respond or behave in a certain way because of something that has happened or been said.
Example
She tends to react quickly when she feels threatened.
Tense Forms
Past: reacted
Past Participle: reacted
Conversation
Did you see how she reacted to the news?
Yeah, I was surprised by her response.
I thought she would be upset, but she seemed calm instead.
Exactly! It's interesting to see how people react differently.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
respond
counter
reply
Antonyms
ignore
neglect
withhold
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to respond or change as a result of an action or influence.
Example
The teacher asked the students to react to the story they read.
Tense Forms
Past: reacted
Past Participle: reacted
Conversation
Did you see how the vinegar reacted with the baking soda?
Yeah, it created such a cool fizz!
I wonder what other things we can make it react with.
Root Explanation
React → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "agere" (meaning to do or act). The word "react" means to act again or respond to a stimulus.
Memory Tip
Think of responding or acting 'again' — 're-' means again, and 'agere' means to act.
Visually Confused Words
redact
preact
rect
retract
refract
foreact
arefact
abreact