Words / C2

ri-POST/rɪˈpɒst/

A riposte is a quick, clever reply; also a return thrust in fencing: a neat riposte, riposte in the foyer. An answer (already in the dictionary) is everyday what you say after a question; to reply (already in the dictionary) is to give an answer, and clever (already in the dictionary) is quick to think. A retort is the close everyday-literary twin of a sharp reply (not already a headword here). This batch: a punctilio is a fine point of etiquette, of seating not of wit; to vituperate is to abuse — heat, not a thrust. Talk of “culture” is not a CSV.

Meaning

A quick, clever reply; also a return thrust in fencing.

Examples

• “A riposte about “culture” is not a CSV.”
• “An answer is what you say after a question (already in A1). To reply is to give an answer (already in A2). Clever is quick to think (already in A1). A punctilio is a fine point of etiquette (this batch). To vituperate is to abuse in violent language (this batch). A dated finding can still be dry. A jest that never files the sheet is theatre. Write the CSV; then the thrust.”

Good to know

A quick clever reply. Everyday: answer / reply (already in this dictionary). Close: clever (already in A1). This batch: punctilio; vituperate. Wit ≠ a CSV.

Near in meaning

retort, comeback, rejoinder, counter

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