1
Core relationship
As a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
Example
The city restricted water use in response to the drought.
in response to
/ɪn rɪˈspɒns tuː/ · in ri-SPONS tooresponse phrase
As a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
Use in response to to express this relationship precisely: as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
What in response to Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Noun-phrase frame
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
In response to public criticism, the agency released the underlying data.
3
Analytical use
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The material expands in response to rising temperature.
Use in response to Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The city restricted water use in response to the drought.
In response to public criticism, the agency released the underlying data.
The material expands in response to rising temperature.
Precision Matters
In response to overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
in response to
vs.Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
because of
Means as a result of; introduces a noun phrase naming a cause.
in response to
vs.Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
in the wake of
Means following an event, often as part of its aftermath or consequence.
in response to
vs.Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
due to
Means caused by or attributable to a stated factor.
in response to
vs.Means as a reaction to an event, condition, request, or stimulus.
for this reason
Means introduce a conclusion, action, or result justified by the immediately preceding reason.
Test in response to in Context
The closure occurs as a reaction to the stress.
1
The plants closed their stomata ___ severe water stress.