answer back
Say something rude or cheeky back to someone like a parent or teacher when they tell you off.
Meanings
To reply rudely or disrespectfully to someone in authority, especially when being scolded or corrected.
"The teacher sent him to the headmaster's office for answering back."
To reply to a question or comment, especially quickly or defensively (more neutral sense).
"She answered back immediately, defending her decision without hesitation."
Often used by parents scolding children, or to describe a child's behaviour. Can also mean simply to reply (less common, more neutral sense). 'Don't answer back!' is a classic parental phrase in British English. In American English, 'talk back' is more common.
Commonly used with
Forms
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