Learn English – Is it correct to say “reply something”

word-usage

Is it correct to say "reply something" as in:

— Did you ask him about dinner?

— Yes.

— And what did he reply?

Best Answer

Using 'reply' transitively is not the most natural for English speakers, it tends to be intransitive (although its transitive form is sometimes used) or as a noun.

Verb
1.
Say something in response to something someone has said.
"he was gone before we could reply to his last remark"

Noun
1.
a verbal or written answer.
"I received a reply from the managing director"

In your example, I would suggest re-phrasing it to:

What was his reply

This uses the word reply, but as a noun rather than a verb. This sounds more idiomatic and, while your example might be understood, this sounds better.

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