1.
written reply; response document; formal answer in writing
A formal document written in response to an inquiry, request, or official communication. Used in business, legal, and administrative contexts.
返答書を提出した。
I submitted a written reply.
期限までに返答書を送ってください。
Please send your written reply by the deadline.
相手方の弁護士から正式な返答書が届いたので、内容を確認してほしい。
A formal written reply arrived from the opposing party's lawyer, so please review its contents.
Composed of 返答 (reply, answer) and 書 (document, writing). A formal term used primarily in business correspondence, legal proceedings, and government administration. The emphasis is on the written and official nature of the reply, distinguishing it from a casual verbal response.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 返答書を提出する: to submit a written reply
- 返答書を作成する: to prepare a written reply
- 正式な返答書: formal written reply
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 回答書: written answer — more commonly used in official and survey contexts
- 答弁書: written defense/answer — specifically a legal term for the defendant's response
- 返信: reply — broader term covering letters, emails, and messages