Dominic Holland

I got heckled by a woman, and my riposte fixed upon her unfortunate hair texture, only for her to remove her wig and reveal to the room the horrors of chemotherapy.

English Comedian

Meryl Streep

Nobody can swashbuckle a quick-witted riposte like Emma Thompson. She's a writer, a real writer, and she has a relish for the well-chosen word.

American Actress

Mal Peet

I didn't consciously make the decision to write an adult novel. I didn't think of it as my riposte to the YA genre.

English Author

Best used in casual or informal discussions rather than formal writing.

Conversational Use

A riposte should be immediate and spontaneous, showing quick wit.

Timing Matters

The effectiveness often depends on a confident and sometimes sarcastic tone.

Tone of Voice

In fencing, a riposte is a strategic move used to gain a point.

Fencing Strategy

Success of a fencing riposte relies on precise timing and technique.

Precision Required

A riposte in fencing requires fast physical reaction to the opponent's moves.

Physical Quickness

The verb form signifies a sharp and clever verbal counter to a challenge.

Witty Counter

A spoken riposte comes off the cuff and shows verbal agility.

Spontaneous Rebuttal

The verb indicates an immediate counteraction in a fencing bout.

Fencing Counter

Riposting in fencing isn't passive; it's an active thrust after defense.

Riposte