to reply / counter
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to reply
(elevated) To answer a statement or question, often in the form of an objection or counterclaim; to respond.
„Das sehe ich völlig anders“, entgegnete sie ihm mit fester Stimme.
"I see that completely differently," she replied to him in a firm voice.
'Entgegnen' (to reply / counter) is an inseparable verb; the prefix 'entgegen-' is not separated. It carries the meaning of 'against' or 'in response to'.
Sie entgegnete ihm, dass sie anderer Meinung sei.
She replied to him that she was of a different opinion.
This verb always requires a dative for the person or thing one is reacting to. The structure is: 'jemandem (Dativ) etwas entgegnen' (to reply/counter with something to someone).
Auf die Frage des Journalisten entgegnete der Politiker nur ein Lächeln.
In response to the journalist's question, the politician replied only with a smile.
'Entgegnen' (to reply / counter) is a formal word and is mainly used in written language, in speeches, or in formal discussions. It often sounds more intellectual or detached than 'antworten' (to answer).
In seiner offiziellen Stellungnahme entgegnete das Unternehmen den Vorwürfen.
In its official statement, the company countered the allegations.
'Entgegnen' (to reply) is often used to introduce direct speech, especially when it expresses a contradiction or a different perspective. The verb can come before or after the quotation.
„Das ist nicht wahr!“, entgegnete sie wütend.
"That's not true!" she replied angrily.
to answer
'beantworten' and 'entgegnen' can both describe a reaction to something that has been said. 'beantworten' is neutral and works well for questions, emails, letters, or official inquiries. 'entgegnen' is more elevated and often means that someone responds to a statement with an objection or an opposing opinion. It is more often used in discussions, reports, or written texts. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with answering. In everyday life, people usually say 'eine Frage beantworten' (to answer a question). 'entgegnen' fits better when someone counters a statement with something else.
Der Politiker entgegnete, dass dieser Plan zu teuer sei.
The politician replied that this plan was too expensive.
Im Büro beantworte ich zuerst die wichtigsten Nachrichten.
At the office, I answer the most important messages first.