Synonym Chooser

How does the noun response differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of response are answer, rejoinder, reply, and retort. While all these words mean "something spoken, written, or done in return," response may imply a quick or spontaneous reaction to a person or thing that serves as a stimulus.

a response to the call for recruits

When would answer be a good substitute for response?

The words answer and response can be used in similar contexts, but answer implies the satisfying of a question, demand, call, or need.

had answers to all their questions

When could rejoinder be used to replace response?

While the synonyms rejoinder and response are close in meaning, rejoinder can be a response to a reply or to an objection.

a salesman with a quick rejoinder to every argument

When can reply be used instead of response?

The meanings of reply and response largely overlap; however, reply often suggests a thorough response to all issues, points, or questions raised.

a point-by-point reply to the accusation

When might retort be a better fit than response?

Although the words retort and response have much in common, retort implies a reaction to an implicit or explicit charge, criticism, or attack which contains a countercharge or counterattack.

she made a cutting retort to her critics

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of response White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said the move was in response to USIP's noncompliance with Trump's February reduction order. Aysha Bagchi, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2025 Amazon said its lawsuit comes in response to a final order filed by the CPSC on January 17. Kate Gibson, CBS News, 18 Mar. 2025 Heart tissue is remodeled in response to a heart attack or high blood pressure. Scott Lafee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2025 Newsom’s office cited the arguments laid out in the executive order in response to questions about the political timing of this decision. Stephen Hobbs, Sacramento Bee, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for response
Recent Examples of Synonyms for response
Noun
  • Common side effects from vaginal moisturizers can include, allergic reactions, skin irritation, and yeast infections.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 21 Mar. 2025
  • While sharing memories of his experiences across his filmography, Fassbender recalls that his horse had a stimulating reaction to his presence.
    Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 21 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Her post began with a screenshot of her earlier remark about bracing for backlash to Meghan’s new Netflix series before revealing the Duchess' witty handwritten reply.
    Janine Henni, People.com, 20 Mar. 2025
  • For instance, Salesforce Einstein provides leaders with automation to personalize emails with real-time data and reply to social media or marketing activities, which helps strengthen the connection with their audience. 4.
    Jon Michail, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Looking for Wednesday’s Wordle hints, clues and answer?
    Erik Kain, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025
  • At this time, our hearts are with the victim’s family and friends, who, after many agonizing months of searching for answers, are now grieving the tragic death of their loved one.
    Alexandra Koch, Fox News, 19 Mar. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Response.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/response. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on response

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!