right back at you
Definition
The meaning: Right back at you is an informal phrase used to return a compliment, greeting, or good wish that someone has just given you. It’s a friendly way of saying "same to you."
La signification: L'expression anglaise right back at you, qui signifie "pareillement" ou "toi aussi", est souvent utilisée pour renvoyer un compliment ou une formule de politesse que l’on vient de recevoir. Par exemple, si quelqu’un dit "bon travail !", on peut répondre "right back at you" pour dire "merci, toi aussi !".
Note: It is most commonly used in casual conversations and helps maintain a friendly, reciprocal tone.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Pareillement
» Toi aussi
» À toi aussi
» Réciproquement
» Je te retourne le compliment
A: Bon week-end !
B: Pareillement !
English synonyms
» Same to you
» You too
» Likewise
» Back at ya
» Ditto
A: Great job on the presentation!
B: Right back at you, it was a team effort!
Dialogue
Maya: "Happy birthday! Hope you have a fantastic day!"
Leo: "Aw, thanks! Right back at you when it’s your turn!"
Etymology
Origin: The phrase right back at you emerged in American English in the late 20th century as a casual, friendly way of returning good wishes or compliments. It’s built on the idea of immediately sending something (like kindness or praise) back to its origin, like bouncing it back in the same direction.
Audience
The phrase "right back at you" is especially popular in American English, used mostly in casual contexts between friends, colleagues, or family.
When to use: Say this when someone gives you a compliment, greeting, or positive wish — and you want to warmly return the sentiment. For example: "Nice job on the project!" — "Right back at you!"
Dictionary Meaning
The Free Dictionary says that it's "An exclamation used to express the same sentiment back to the original speaker; same as 'you too' and 'same to you.' Primarily heard in US." Here's a provided example of use:
A: "You're one of the nicest people I know."
B: "Aw, thanks! Right back at you!"
News Snippet
"[An ex-Ethiopian general Han met in the US] said that America and the West were crying now because they had lost Africa to China…. Even South Africa, which has strong ties with Great Britain, is turning to China now. The African people and African nations have finally learned by comparison and contrast that what China can offer them is a much better deal."
Strong words there: Right back at you, Hillary.
Read the full article at the Daily Maverick
Extra! Extra!
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Common Idioms & Expressions Related to "Right Back at You"
Right Back at You
A response used to return a compliment, insult, or greeting in kind.
Example: "You’re awesome! — Right back at you!"
Same to You
A phrase used to reciprocate a greeting or sentiment.
Example: "Have a great weekend! — Same to you."
Takes One to Know One
A humorous or defensive way to acknowledge a compliment or insult by suggesting it applies equally to the speaker.
Example: "You're so clever. — Takes one to know one!"
Back at You
A shortened, informal way of saying “Right back at you.”
Example: "Nice job today! — Back at you."
Touché
A witty acknowledgment that someone has made a clever point, often in response to a playful jab.
Example: "Well, you did the same thing last week. — Touché."
Mirror That
A more poetic or dramatic way to express agreement or reciprocation.
Example: "Your energy is amazing. — I mirror that!"
Ditto
A casual way of saying “the same” or expressing that what was just said applies to you as well.
Example: "I had a great time. — Ditto!"
You Too
A friendly, simple way to return a compliment or well wish.
Example: "Have a good night. — You too."
Reflected Right Back
A warm and affectionate way to return kind words or love.
Example: "Sending lots of love your way. — And it’s reflected right back!"
Echo That
A way to show agreement or to return a sentiment.
Example: "You’re the best! — I echo that!"
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