Why Is It So Difficult to Understand What RSVP Means?

Respond means to answer.

Have you ever sent an invitation asking people to RSVP and you get a reply, I’m RSVPing? And you’re like, Okay, but what’s your answer?

For instance, say you’re asked if you can attend a party at a specific date and time. You answer either yes or no. In the above example, it would be like replying by saying I’m responding.

Yes, you acknowledged the invitation, but you’ve left your host hanging. They don’t know whether or not you’re coming.

At work, I was in charge of organizing the office Christmas Party, or Holiday Party, and e-mailed with an RSVP. I received several replies of this nature. It surprised me as I believed RSVP was a common post-script to an invitation.

Evidently not.

What does It Mean?

RSVP is a French acronym for:

Répondez s’il vous plaît. Respond, if you please or Please respond. And when you respond, you answer.

The host or hostess is asking you to please let them know whether or not you plan on attending. An invitation that says “RSVP regrets, only,” means respond if you do not plan on attending.

Formal occasions, like a wedding, will include a response card. Less formal occasions may request that you reply by telephone, text, e-mail, or social media.

RSVPs will include a deadline as well.

How to Respond to an RSVP

First of all, accept or decline the invitation.

If you are unsure about whether or not you will be able to attend, be honest with your host or hostess and let them know. They are planning food and menus and need to get the number right.

If they can be a little flexible, perhaps you can reply one way or the other after the deadline.

Do not, not respond or respond late.

Saying even I’m not sure is better than saying nothing. And it’s honest.

Read the Invitation

Make sure you read the invitation carefully so you know how many people are included.

If it’s addressed to you and a guest or your significant other, you are responding for two people. If only you are attending, indicate that only one person is coming.

If it’s addressed to a family with children, again indicate the number of people.

Now you know what RSVP means.

Keep an eye out for invitations that say this and, if necessary, mention it to your friends.

And enjoy the event! Whatever it is.