sans réponse
In French, "no reply" is translated as sans réponse.
The phrase sans réponse is used to describe a message, such as a letter, email or inquiry, that has not received an answer. It is commonly used in administrative or formal contexts.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the preposition sans (without) and the noun réponse (answer/reply).
How does it change in a sentence?
As an adjectival phrase, sans réponse does not change its form regardless of whether the noun it modifies is singular or plural.
Did you know?
- In French administration, a lack of reply from an authority within a specific legal timeframe can sometimes be legally interpreted as a 'tacit agreement' or approval.
- While sans réponse is common for emails, French speakers often use the phrase faire le mort (to play dead) to describe someone who is intentionally giving no reply.
- The word réponse descends from the Latin 'respōnsum', which originally meant a 'promise' or 'pledge' rather than just a simple answer.
Examples in context
- Bonjour Monsieur Dupont, Veuillez noter que cette communication est destinée à vous informer des dernières mises à jour. Pas de réponse nécessaire. Cordialement, Marie DuvalHello Mr. Dupont, Please note that this communication is intended to inform you of the latest updates. No reply necessary. Sincerely, Marie Duval
- Cher Collaborateur, Votre engagement a été noté et nous vous remercions pour votre coopération dans ce projet. Ne pas répondre à ce message. Cordialement, L'équipe de directionDear Collaborator, Your engagement has been noted and we thank you for your cooperation in this project. Do not reply to this message. Sincerely, The management team
- Salut Sophie, Je voulais juste te souhaiter une excellente journée. Pas besoin de répondre, je voulais juste te faire savoir que je pense à toi. À bientôt, MarcHi Sophie, I just wanted to wish you an excellent day. No need to reply, I just wanted to let you know I'm thinking of you. See you soon, Marc
- Hey Sam, On se voit ce soir à 20h chez moi. Inutile de répondre, je sais que tu seras là. Amitiés, EmmaHey Sam, See you tonight at 8pm at my place. No need to reply, I know you'll be there. Best, Emma
- Une lettre sans réponse.A letter with no reply.
- Son message est resté sans réponse.His message remained without a reply.
- J'ai envoyé un mail, mais il est sans réponse.I sent an email, but it has no reply.
Example conversation
Nathan and Chloé are discussing a job application.
- NathanAs-tu reçu une réponse pour le poste ?Did you get a response for the position?
- ChloéNon, ma candidature est encore sans réponse.No, my application is still without a reply.
- NathanC'est peut-être parce qu'ils sont débordés.Maybe it's because they are overwhelmed.
- ChloéJ'espère, sinon c'est mauvais signe.I hope so, otherwise it's a bad sign.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries réponse, sans, CC BY-SA 4.0.
