Is It Correct to Say ‘waiting your reply’?

No, it is not grammatically correct to say “waiting your reply” in standard English. The verb “wait” requires a preposition—usually “for”—before its object. The correct form is “waiting for your reply.” This is a common mistake among English learners because some languages allow a direct object after “wait,” but English does not. Whether you are writing a formal email, a casual message, or speaking in conversation, you must include “for” to make the phrase grammatically accurate.

Quick Answer

Incorrect: “I am waiting your reply.”
Correct: “I am waiting for your reply.”

Always use “for” after “wait” when you are referring to a person, a thing, or an event. The only exception is in very informal, shortened text messages or notes where grammar is intentionally broken for speed—but even then, it is not considered correct English.

Why ‘Waiting Your Reply’ Is Wrong

The verb “wait” is intransitive in most contexts, meaning it cannot take a direct object. You cannot “wait something” or “wait someone.” Instead, you must use a prepositional phrase. The most common preposition is “for.”

• Correct: “I am waiting for the bus.”
• Incorrect: “I am waiting the bus.”
• Correct: “She is waiting for her friend.”
• Incorrect: “She is waiting her friend.”

The same rule applies to “reply.” You must say “waiting for your reply.” Omitting “for” creates a grammatical error that can confuse the reader or listener.

Formal vs. Informal Context

In formal writing, such as business emails or academic correspondence, you should always use “waiting for your reply.” This is the standard, polite, and professional form.

In informal conversation or casual text messages, native speakers sometimes drop words for speed. For example, you might see a text like “Waiting your reply” in a very quick chat. However, this is not grammatically correct and is considered a mistake even in informal settings. It is better to say “Waiting for your reply” or even the shorter “Waiting for your response.”

Email Context

In email writing, the phrase often appears at the end of a message. Here are common correct forms:

• “I look forward to waiting for your reply.” (formal)
• “I am waiting for your reply.” (neutral)
• “Waiting for your reply.” (common in email closings)

Avoid: “Waiting your reply.” This will look unprofessional to a native speaker.

Conversation Context

In spoken English, you might hear someone say “I’m waiting for your reply” or “I’m waiting to hear from you.” The incorrect “I’m waiting your reply” is rare among native speakers but common among learners. If you use the correct form, you will sound more natural.

Comparison Table: Correct vs. Incorrect Forms

Natural Examples

Here are examples of how native speakers use “waiting for your reply” in real situations:

• Email: “Thank you for your time. I am waiting for your reply regarding the proposal.”
• Text message: “Hey, just waiting for your reply about dinner plans.”
• Conversation: “I sent you a question earlier. I’m still waiting for your reply.”
• Business letter: “We are waiting for your reply before we proceed with the next steps.”
• Customer service: “Our team is waiting for your reply to resolve this issue.”

Common Mistakes

Here are the most frequent errors learners make with “waiting” and “reply”:

• Mistake 1: “I am waiting your reply.” → Correction: “I am waiting for your reply.”
• Mistake 2: “I am waiting for reply.” (missing “your”) → Correction: “I am waiting for your reply.”
• Mistake 3: “I wait your reply.” → Correction: “I wait for your reply.” (still awkward; better: “I am waiting for your reply.”)
• Mistake 4: “Waiting your response.” → Correction: “Waiting for your response.”

Another common mistake is using “waiting on” instead of “waiting for.” In some dialects, “waiting on” can mean “serving” (like a waiter), so it is safer to use “waiting for” in most situations.

Better Alternatives

If you want to vary your language, here are some natural alternatives to “waiting for your reply”:

• “I look forward to your reply.” (formal, polite)
• “I await your reply.” (very formal, slightly old-fashioned)
• “Hoping to hear from you soon.” (common in emails)
• “Let me know when you have a chance.” (informal)
• “I am eager to hear back from you.” (enthusiastic)

Each alternative has a different tone. “I await your reply” is more formal than “waiting for your reply.” “Hoping to hear from you soon” is friendly and common in business emails. Choose based on your relationship with the reader.

When to Use ‘Waiting for Your Reply’

Use “waiting for your reply” in these situations:

• When you have sent a question and need an answer.
• When you are expecting a decision or confirmation.
• When you are following up on a previous message.
• In any formal or semi-formal written communication.

Avoid using it when you are being very direct or urgent. In those cases, you might say “Please reply as soon as possible” instead.

Mini Practice: 4 Questions

Test your understanding. Choose the correct option for each sentence.

Question 1: Which sentence is correct?
A) I am waiting your reply.
B) I am waiting for your reply.
C) I am waiting for reply.

Answer: B) I am waiting for your reply.

Question 2: Fill in the blank: “She is _______ the email.”
A) waiting
B) waiting for
C) waiting on

Answer: B) waiting for

Question 3: Is this sentence correct? “We are waiting your response.”
A) Yes
B) No

Answer: B) No. It should be “We are waiting for your response.”

Question 4: Which is the most formal alternative to “waiting for your reply”?
A) Waiting your reply
B) I await your reply
C) Let me know

Answer: B) I await your reply

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘Waiting Your Reply’

1. Is ‘waiting your reply’ ever acceptable?

No, it is not grammatically correct in standard English. Some people use it in very informal text messages, but it is still a mistake. Always use “waiting for your reply” for correct English.

2. Can I say ‘waiting on your reply’?

In some regional dialects, “waiting on” is used to mean “waiting for,” but it can also mean “serving” (like a waiter). To avoid confusion, it is safer to use “waiting for your reply” in most situations, especially in writing.

3. What is the difference between ‘waiting for your reply’ and ‘awaiting your reply’?

“Awaiting your reply” is more formal and slightly old-fashioned. “Waiting for your reply” is neutral and common in both formal and informal contexts. Both are correct, but “awaiting” is less common in everyday conversation.

4. How do I use ‘waiting for your reply’ in an email?

Place it near the end of your email. For example: “I look forward to hearing from you. I am waiting for your reply.” You can also use it as a standalone sentence: “Waiting for your reply.” This is common in professional emails.

Final Note

Remember, the key rule is simple: after “wait,” use “for” before the object. Whether you are writing an email, speaking in a meeting, or chatting with friends, “waiting for your reply” is the correct and natural choice. Avoid the common mistake of dropping “for,” and your English will sound more accurate and professional.

For more help with common verb mistakes, visit our Grammar Accuracy Checks section. If you have questions about email phrases, check our Email Phrase Corrections page. You can also read our FAQ for additional support.