Retorts

Retorts are sharp, witty, or clever replies, often made quickly and defensively, usually in response to a statement or question. They are characterized by their pointedness and ability to deflate or counter an opponent's argument. retorts can range from playful banter to scathing comebacks, serving to protect oneself, expose a weakness in the original statement, or simply to win an exchange of words. The effectiveness of a retort depends on its timing, brevity, and the relevance of its content to the context of the conversation.

Retorts meaning with examples

• During the debate, when the opposing candidate criticized her policies, the senator fired back with a series of well-crafted retorts, systematically dismantling his arguments and highlighting his own inconsistencies. The crowd was captivated by the senator’s ability to remain calm under pressure, quickly formulating her retorts that made the other candidate stumble. The snappy retorts ultimately swayed many undecided voters.
• John was known for his quick wit, and his friends enjoyed the banter. When someone would tease him about his clumsiness, he’d immediately offer a clever retort about their own shortcomings. One such retort involved a witty remark that perfectly turned the situation around, resulting in laughter and a shared moment of amusement. This back and forth demonstrated their tight friendship, with their retorts highlighting the depth of their relationship.
• In the heated argument between the siblings, the younger brother's retort to his sister's insult was a personal jab, revealing a vulnerability that silenced her. His unexpected retort caused the sister to pause, the sting of the unexpected turn caught her off guard and ended the conversation, the victory lasting a short while. The retort proved that sometimes the best defense can be a strategically placed offense.
• The comedian's stand-up routine was filled with hilarious retorts to common societal absurdities. He expertly crafted each retort as the setup transitioned to the punchline. His retorts served to point out the oddities of the situation and made his audience laugh, a good retort and clever wordplay was at the heart of the show.