reply
verb (used without object)
to make answer in words or writing; answer; respond.
had replied
-
past perfectof reply.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“The colored people have a right to defend themselves,” Hanway had replied.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 2, 2026
“Kim Jong Un has always treated me with great respect,” Trump said, confirming that the North Korean leader had replied to his overtures.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 19, 2026
Investigators say the girlfriend told them that Mr. Banta had previously suggested ordering abortion medication online, to which she had replied that she wanted to keep the baby.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 4, 2026
The women had replied to a social media advert by The Panto Company offering "competitive pay" for "actors who can create magical Elf fun".
From BBC ● Feb. 17, 2025
But their parents had replied that in America, Bengali friends were the closest thing they had to family, and so they had gone to Bedford, where the Mazoomdars lived.
From "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri
