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
1
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
1
A reply to an invitation.
"We're still waiting on a few RSVPs."
How to use RSVP
Learner’s notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Plural
- RSVPs
- Third person singular
- RSVPs
- Past tense
- RSVPed, RSVP'd
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."
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.
