reply
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /rɪˈplaɪ/
KK: /rɪˈplaɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To give an answer or response to someone or something, often in speech or writing.
Example
She decided to reply to the email as soon as she could.
Tense Forms
Past: replied
Past Participle: replied
Conversation
Did you get a chance to reply to that email I sent you?
Not yet, I was busy with work all day.
No worries, just let me know when you can reply.
I will, I promise to get to it by tomorrow.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
respond
answer
react
Antonyms
ignore
neglect
dismiss
noun
Definition
A response given to a question or statement, often in speech or writing.
Example
She sent a quick reply to his email.
Conversation
Did you get my text earlier?
Yeah, I saw it! I was just thinking about my reply.
No worries! Take your time with the reply.
transitive verb
Definition
To say something in response to a question or statement.
Example
She decided to reply to the email as soon as she could.
Tense Forms
Past: replied
Past Participle: replied
Conversation
Did you get my text earlier?
Yeah, I saw it, but I forgot to reply right away.
No worries! I just wanted to check if you were free this weekend.
Root Explanation
Reply → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "plicare" (meaning to fold). The word "reply" means to fold back or respond again to a statement or question.
Memory Tip
Think of responding 'again' ('re-') to something that has been 'folded' ('plicare') back to you — that’s why reply means to answer.
Visually Confused Words
rely
reimply
reapply
repel
repay
relay
refly
redly