Answer back
verb phrase
To respond in a rude or disrespectful way - usually to an authority figure such as a parent or teacher.
The student was punished for answering back to the teacher.
Often appears as...
- don't answer back
- repeatedly answered back
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
verb phrase
To defend oneself in an argument or debate.
Every time he criticized her, she would answer back with a well-thought out argument.
Often appears as...
- answer back with authority
- quick to answer back
verb phrase
To respond to a statement or question.
I asked her if she wanted to come, but she didn't answer back.
Often appears as...
- wait for an answer back
- didn't get an answer back
verb phrase
To respond in a rude or disrespectful way - usually to an authority figure such as a parent or teacher.
The student was punished for answering back to the teacher.
Often appears as...
- don't answer back
- repeatedly answered back
Usage tips
Disapproving
Colloquial
verb phrase
To defend oneself in an argument or debate.
Every time he criticized her, she would answer back with a well-thought out argument.
Often appears as...
- answer back with authority
- quick to answer back
verb phrase
To respond to a statement or question.
I asked her if she wanted to come, but she didn't answer back.
Often appears as...
- wait for an answer back
- didn't get an answer back
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/3Authority Disrespect
Used when someone, often younger, challenges an authority with an improper tone.
His habit of answering back got him in trouble at school.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Carries a negative connotation implying rudeness or insubordination.
She's polite and never answers back, even if she disagrees.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Perceived as more offensive in cultures valuing hierarchical respect.
In his culture, answering back to elders is considered highly disrespectful.
Pro Tip 1/3Authority Disrespect
Used when someone, often younger, challenges an authority with an improper tone.
His habit of answering back got him in trouble at school.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Carries a negative connotation implying rudeness or insubordination.
She's polite and never answers back, even if she disagrees.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Perceived as more offensive in cultures valuing hierarchical respect.
In his culture, answering back to elders is considered highly disrespectful.
Pro Tip 1/3Authority Disrespect
Used when someone, often younger, challenges an authority with an improper tone.
His habit of answering back got him in trouble at school.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Carries a negative connotation implying rudeness or insubordination.
She's polite and never answers back, even if she disagrees.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Sensitivity
Perceived as more offensive in cultures valuing hierarchical respect.
In his culture, answering back to elders is considered highly disrespectful.
Never forget "Answer back"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension