blunt retort

[/blʌnt rɪˈtɔːrt/]
nounpl: blunt retorts
resposta contundente
1. a direct, straightforward, and often rude or harsh response to something said; a reply that lacks tact or diplomacy
His blunt retort about her appearance silenced the entire room.
Sua resposta contundente sobre a aparência dela silenciou toda a sala.
2. a sharp comeback that is brief and to the point, without softening or polite language
When asked why he was late, his blunt retort was simply 'I didn't feel like coming.'
Quando perguntado por que estava atrasado, sua resposta contundente foi simplesmente 'Não tive vontade de vir.'
In American English culture, a blunt retort is often seen as bold and honest but can be perceived as rude or unprofessional in formal settings. In Brazilian culture, direct responses (resposta contundente) are common in everyday conversation and are sometimes appreciated for their honesty, though context matters greatly. The expression is more acceptable among friends than in formal or hierarchical contexts.
NYC Slang
snap back / read
Synonyms / Sinônimos
sharp replycurt responseterse comebackbrusque answercandid remarkforthright response
Antonyms / Antônimos
tactful responsediplomatic replygentle answercourteous responsesoft reply

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
resposta contundente
most common translation
Brazil
resposta seca
colloquial alternative meaning a dry, curt response
Brazil
resposta desabrida
implies rudeness and lack of restraint
Portugal
resposta cortante
emphasizes the sharp, cutting nature of the reply

Related Words

retortcomebackquipripostebluntdirectabrupt response

Related Idioms & Phrases

pull no punches
speak one's mind
tell it like it is
not mince words
come back with a zinger
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