verb

RSVP

RSVP (verb) means to reply to an invitation, confirming whether you will attend. Example: “Please RSVP by Friday so we can finalize the catering.”

verb

To reply to an invitation, confirming whether you will attend.

"Please RSVP by Friday so we can finalize the catering."

"Only half the guests had RSVP'd by the deadline."

noun

A reply to an invitation.

"We're still waiting on a few RSVPs."

How to use RSVP

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo confirm to the host whether you're coming to an event.

Common mistake

Saying "please RSVP" is technically redundant since the French phrase already means "please reply," but it's extremely common and accepted in everyday English.

Common pairings

RSVP by [date] send an RSVP RSVP to the invitation

Word forms

RSVPed past tense, RSVP'd past tense, RSVPed past tense, RSVP'd past tense, RSVPs plural, RSVPs singular, RSVPs singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Please _____ by Friday so we can finalize the catering.

Etymology

Borrowed directly from French répondez s'il vous plaît, "please reply."

Origin: French

Frequently asked questions

What does “RSVP” mean?

The word “RSVP” means to reply to an invitation, confirming whether you will attend. In plain terms, to confirm to the host whether you're coming to an event.

How do you use “RSVP” in a sentence?

Here is “RSVP” used in a sentence: “Please RSVP by Friday so we can finalize the catering.”

What part of speech is “RSVP”?

Depending on how it is used, “RSVP” can be a verb and a noun.

Where does the word “RSVP” come from?

The word “RSVP” comes from French. Borrowed directly from French répondez s'il vous plaît, "please reply.".

How many meanings does “RSVP” have?

“RSVP” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to reply to an invitation, confirming whether you will attend.