backchat
/ˈbækˌʧæt/
NOUN
1. Cheeky or disrespectful replies
Rude, impertinent, or disrespectful responses, especially those made in reply to criticism, instructions, or authority.
1.1. Rudeness and disrespectful responses
Refers to insolent, cheeky, or impolite remarks made in response to someone, particularly a parent, teacher, employer, or authority figure.
Synonyms
- back talk
- impertinence
- impudence
- insolence
- sass
- cheek
- lip
- disrespect
- smart mouth
- sauce
Antonyms
Examples
- The student was reprimanded for his disrespectful backchat during class.
- Her parents were tired of her constant backchat whenever they gave her instructions.
- The manager would not tolerate backchat from employees during meetings.
Related Words
1.2. Sarcastic and cheeky remarks
Describes witty, sharp, or sarcastic replies intended to challenge, tease, or mock another person's statement.
Synonyms
- retort
- comeback
- riposte
- repartee
- wisecrack
- quip
- smart remark
- back answer
Antonyms
Examples
- His quick backchat amused the audience but irritated the interviewer.
- She responded with a clever backchat that left everyone laughing.
- The comedian was famous for his sharp backchat and witty comebacks.
Related Words
VERB
2. To respond in a cheeky or argumentative manner
To answer someone in a disrespectful, sarcastic, or argumentative way, especially when responding to criticism or instructions.
2.1. Talking back disrespectfully
Describes responding to someone, particularly an authority figure, with insolent, cheeky, or disrespectful remarks.
Synonyms
- talk back
- sass
- answer back
- retort
- talk back rudely
- mouth off
Antonyms
Examples
- The child was warned not to backchat his teacher.
- He tends to backchat whenever someone questions his decisions.
- The supervisor asked the employee to stop backchatting during the discussion.
Related Words
- disobey
- argue
- challenge
- contradict
- insubordination
- defiance
- impertinence
2.2. Arguing or replying sarcastically
Describes responding with sarcastic, cutting, or argumentative remarks rather than accepting what someone has said.
Synonyms
- argue
- retort
- answer back
- talk back
- quip
- wisecrack
Antonyms
- agree
- concur
- accept
- assent
Examples
- The teenager continued to backchat instead of listening to his parents.
- She backchatted sarcastically when her colleague criticized her work.
- He was quick to backchat whenever someone challenged his opinions.