Retort Meaning in English
word
ˈɹiˌtɔɹt
ri-TORT
ɹɪtˈɔːt
ri-TAWT
Definition
A retort is a quick, sharp, or witty reply, often used as a comeback in an argument or conversation.
Usage & Nuances
Mainly used as a noun or verb in formal or literary contexts. Implies cleverness or sharpness, not just speed. Commonly appears as 'a quick retort' or 'retorted.' Less common in everyday speech than 'comeback' or 'reply.'
Spanish: respuesta rápida - réplica mordazPortuguese (BR): resposta rápida - réplicaPortuguese (PT): resposta rápida - réplicaChinese (Simplified): 反驳 - 机智的回应Chinese (Traditional): 反駁 - 機智的回應Hindi: फौरन जवाब - तीखा उत्तरArabic: رد سريع - إجابة لاذعةBengali: খাড়া উত্তর - মুখতব্বর উত্তরRussian: остроумный ответ - резкий ответJapanese: 鋭い返答 - 皮肉な返しVietnamese: lời đáp trả sắc bén - lời đối đáp thông minhKorean: 기지 있는 대답 - 재치 있는 반박Turkish: nüktedan cevap - alaycı karşılıkUrdu: تیز جواب - طنزیہ جوابIndonesian: jawaban tajam - tanggapan cerdas
Example Sentences
She gave a retort to his rude comment.
basic
His retort made everyone laugh.
basic
A clever retort can end an argument.
basic
Without missing a beat, she fired back a witty retort.
natural
“Is that all you’ve got?” he asked, waiting for her retort.
natural
Her sarcastic retort caught everyone off guard.
natural