retort
UK/rɪ'tɔːt/US/ri'tɒ:t/
IELTSTOEFLGREB2
Definitions
v.
To reply quickly and sharply, especially in anger or as a counter to criticism.
反驳，顶嘴，回敬（尤指带怒气或针对批评）。
n.
A sharp, witty, or angry reply.
尖锐（或机智）的回击；反驳。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedre- (back) + tort (twist) = 'twist back.' Someone throws a remark at you; a retort twists it straight back at them. The key is the return motion — not just any answer, but a quick comeback fired in response to a challenge, jibe, or insult.
Root tort still carries 27 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.a sharp retort尖锐的回击
- 2.an angry retort愤怒的反驳
- 3.a witty retort机智的回敬
- 4.retort angrily愤怒地反驳
Example Sentences
- 1.
"That's none of your business," she retorted angrily.
- 2.
He had a sharp retort ready for every criticism.
- 3.
Instead of arguing, she retorted with a single cutting line.