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You’ve probably seen the word “RSVP” on an invitation, but have you ever wondered what it means? RSVP is an abbreviation for the French phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît,” which translates to “please reply” in English. When you receive an invitation with RSVP, it is a polite request from the host for you to let them know whether or not you’ll be attending the event.
In this reference, we’ll explore the history behind this phrase, its proper usage, and even some tips on when and how to respectfully respond to an invitation with an RSVP request. With this information, you’ll be prepared to handle any RSVP situation with ease.
RSVP Meaning and Origin
- RSVP is a French abbreviation for “Répondez s’il vous plaît,” which means “Please respond,” used to request a reply to an invitation.
What Does RSVP Mean?
RSVP is an abbreviation derived from the French phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît,” which translates to “please respond” in English. It is commonly used on invitations for events such as weddings, parties, or conferences to request that the invitee confirms their attendance. RSVP serves as a polite way of asking guests to let the host know if they plan to join the event or not. Being aware of the number of guests attending an event enables the host to make proper arrangements for food, seating, and other logistics.
Origin of RSVP
The expression ‘rsvp’ comes from the French phrase, ‘Repondez s’il vous plait’ and means ‘please respond’.
The proper way to decline an ‘rsvp’ is with a letter saying, ‘I regret to inform you I must decline.’ and/or ‘RSVP, regrets only.’ This is highly recommended for doing if you don’t plan on attending the event. Most commonly an unanswered ‘rsvp’ is considered to be a simple way of accepting. Sending your regrets is the only true way to stop confusion if you don’t plan on attending.
Related Terms to RSVP
- RSVP Regrets Only: This term indicates that you only need to respond if you cannot attend the event. If you can attend, no response is required. This method is often used when the host assumes that most of the invitees will be able to make it to the event.
- RSVP by [Date]: This indicates that the host requires a response by a specific date so that they can finalize the arrangements. It’s important to reply as soon as possible, ideally before the given date, to give the host an accurate headcount.
- RSVP for [Number]: Sometimes, the invitation may mention a specific number of people, implying that you can bring guests along. Make sure to clarify the number of people attending in your response to help the host plan better.
Conversation Examples Using RSVP
Here are some ways this internet slang word is used.
Example 1:
You receive a beautiful wedding invitation in the mail and after opening it you see that it says, ‘Please RSVP.’
Many will do this for weddings and large catered events to ensure they have plenty of food for everyone coming and if you don’t respond back with a yes, more than likely you won’t be welcomed at said event.
Example 2:
- Texter 1: Hey did you send June an rsvp?
- Texter 2: No I changed my mind.
- Texter 1: Me too, but I still said I was going.
- Texter 2: Well sounds like you have to go.
- Texter 2: Or call her and get out of it.
Here we have a couple of friends talking about a party and if they had told the host whether or not they were coming.
An ‘rsvp’ wasn’t sent to them, they are simply having a conversation asking each other if they had told the host they were coming or not and the fastest way to ask someone that question especially in a text would be, ‘did you rsvp?’.
Example 3
- Company News Letter: Office party this weekend, all must RSVP by 8 pm.
A simple letter sent to all employees telling them to say yes or no to attending the office party by no later than 8 pm.
RSVP Terminology
RSVP Synonyms
First off, a commonly used alternative for RSVP is the simple and straightforward “please reply.” This phrase clearly conveys the same message, asking the invitee to inform the organizer of their attendance intentions.
Another synonym for RSVP could be “please answer,” which has a similar meaning, inquiring about the guest’s decision to attend or not to attend the event. It’s essential to make your response timely and considerate, so the host can plan accordingly.
You might also encounter the phrase “répondez s’il vous plaît” in full, especially in formal invitations. This French expression directly corresponds to RSVP and maintains the etiquette of asking for a response. It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with this synonym to be well-prepared in any situation.
Other Meanings of RSVP
- Resource Reservation Protocol
- Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
- Rapid Serial Visual Presentation
- Revenue Sharing Value Plan
- Recycling Student Volunteer Project
- Reserve Seats Via Phone
- Resource Reservation Protocol
- Regional Smoking Vehicle Program (Texas)
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