erwiderung

Erwiderung is a German noun (die Erwiderung) that denotes an answer or reply to a statement, question, allegation, or proposal. In general use, it marks a response that engages with what was said and may include justification, counterarguments, or a rebuttal. The term tends to be more formal thanAntwort and can imply a stance that opposes or challenges the prior assertion.

In legal contexts, the word is used for a defendant’s formal written reply to a plaintiff’s complaint or to an indictment. The Erwiderung auf die Klage is usually submitted within a procedural deadline and may present defenses, counterclaims, or objections to the claims or the remedy sought.

In rhetoric and everyday language, eine schlagfertige Erwiderung refers to a brisk, well-phrased rebuttal. In journalism and public discourse it can denote a counterstatement or Gegendarstellung to counter allegations or statements published by others.

Etymology: The word is formed from the verb erwidern (to reply) with the prefix er- and the nominalizing suffix -ung. Related terms include Antwort, Gegendarstellung, and Widerspruch.