REACTION Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

reaction

noun

rē-ˈak-shən

as in response

action or behavior that is done in return to other action or behavior we were startled by her extreme reaction to being jilted by her boyfriend

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of reaction The special repeatedly cuts to reaction shots of one particular front-row roastee who is quietly having a bad time because Hinchcliffe keeps picking on him. —

Hershal Pandya, Vulture, 12 June 2026 That was my first reaction too. —

Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 12 June 2026 Moscow never issued an official reaction. —

Frank Andrews, CBS News, 12 June 2026 Melliti keeps the shy teenager’s reactions neutral, Fatima’s stoicism a strategy to prevent exposing her inexperience. —

Los Angeles Times, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for reaction

Recent Examples of Synonyms for reaction

Noun

On June 8, a federal judge invalidated the White House's $100,000 fee policy in response to a lawsuit brought by 20 states.

— Shanelle Kaul, CBS News, 14 June 2026
Roupp was then asked for his response to members of the LGBTQ+ community who might take offense at his messaging.

— Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 13 June 2026