What Does RSVP Mean? (And How to Respond to One)
RSVP means "répondez s’il vous plaît," French for "please respond." Here’s what it means on an invitation, the common variations, and exactly how to reply.
You’ve seen “RSVP” on the bottom of every invitation, but what does it actually mean, and what are you supposed to do about it? Short version: it’s a polite request to reply yes or no by a certain date. Here’s the full story, plus the common variations and exactly how to respond.
What does RSVP stand for?
RSVP stands for the French phrase répondez s’il vous plaît, which translates literally as “respond, if you please,” or simply “please respond.” It’s pronounced roughly ray-pon-day seel voo pleh, though almost everyone just says the letters: R-S-V-P.
What RSVP means on an invitation
When a host writes “RSVP,” they’re asking you to tell them whether or not you’ll attend, by the date they give. It applies whether your answer is yes or no. The whole point is an accurate headcount for food, seating and planning. Replying isn’t optional politeness; it’s the one thing the host genuinely needs from you.
Where did RSVP come from?
The abbreviation entered English from French etiquette in the 19th century, when French was the language of polite society and formal correspondence. The custom stuck, and “RSVP” became the standard shorthand on invitations across the English-speaking world. That’s why a French phrase still sits on a birthday invite today.
Common RSVP variations and what they mean
You’ll see RSVP written a few different ways. Here’s how to read each one:
| What it says | What it means |
|---|---|
| RSVP by [date] | Reply yes or no before that date. |
| RSVP regrets only | Reply only if you cannot come; silence is treated as a yes. |
| The favor of a reply is requested | A formal way of saying RSVP, common on wedding invitations. |
| RSVP + M_____ | The blank line is for your name(s) and title on a printed response card. |
| RSVP to [name/number/link] | Use exactly that method to reply, and don’t reply elsewhere. |
| No RSVP needed | Just show up; the host isn’t tracking a headcount. |
How to respond to an RSVP
Replying takes a minute. Do it as soon as you know your answer rather than waiting for the deadline:
- Reply using the method the host asked for: the link, number or address on the invitation.
- Say clearly whether you’re coming, and for how many people if plus-ones are allowed.
- Mention anything they asked for, like dietary needs or a song request.
- Send it before the deadline. If your plans change later, tell the host as soon as you can.
Not sure what to actually write? Our RSVP wording guide has copy-and-paste examples for accepting and declining.
Do you have to reply if you can’t go?
Yes, and this is the part people get wrong most often. An RSVP asks for a reply either way. A quick “so sorry, we can’t make it” is far kinder than leaving the host guessing and over-catering. For the full do’s and don’ts, see our RSVP etiquette guide.
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About Invite Jam Team
Written by the Invite Jam team - the people building Invite Jam, the free way to design invitations on Canva, share them by link, and track every RSVP in real time. We write about invitation wording, party planning, and getting more guests to actually reply.
Learn more about Invite JamFrequently asked questions
- What does RSVP mean?
- RSVP is short for the French “répondez s’il vous plaît,” meaning “please respond.” On an invitation it’s a request to tell the host whether or not you’ll attend by a given date.
- Does RSVP mean you are coming?
- No. RSVP simply means “please reply.” You should respond whether your answer is yes or no, unless the invitation says “regrets only,” in which case you only reply if you can’t come.
- How do you respond to an RSVP?
- Reply using the method on the invitation (link, phone number or address), state clearly whether you’re attending and for how many, include anything the host asked for such as dietary needs, and send it before the deadline.
- Is it rude to not RSVP?
- Yes. Not replying leaves the host unable to plan and is considered impolite. Even a quick “sorry, we can’t make it” is appreciated. A prompt reply, yes or no, is the courteous thing to do.