The Difference Between 'Feedback' and 'Reply'

Feedback is helpful information or criticism that is given to someone to say what can be done to improve something such as a performance, product, etc. Someone gives feedback to let another person, or a company, know how well they are doing a job, or how good or bad a product is. Sometimes teachers ask for feedback from students so they can improve their teaching methods. Shops sometimes ask for feedback to see if their employees are doing their job well.

A reply is something said, written, or done as an answer or response to what someone else has said, written, or done. A reply is usually expected or asked for. It can be an answer to a question, or a response to an e-mail, or something said as a reaction to what another person said.

Below are some examples of feedback, and replies.

Kim: Hey, did you listen to my new podcast? What do you think of it?

Erin: I listened to it this morning. It was great! (The second sentence is feedback about Kim's podcast.)

Teacher: Do you have any suggestions for how the lesson could be better?

Student: Yes. It would be helpful if you provided some worksheets for us to practice with. (This is feedback to help the teacher improve the lesson.)

Jerry: Are you coming to the party tonight?

Meg: I am! (This is a reply to Jerry's question.)

Sam: I caught a virus and have to stay home sick today.

Adam: I'm sorry to hear that, Sam. (This is a reply to Sam's statement.)

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