Rsvp vs. Invitation — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on September 27, 2023
Rsvp is a request for a response to an invitation, while an invitation is a formal request to attend an event.
Difference Between Rsvp and Invitation
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Rsvp and Invitation are terms frequently used together, especially in the context of social events. An Invitation is essentially a document or message requesting the presence of a person at a specified event or occasion. It serves as a means to inform someone that they are welcomed to participate in a particular gathering. On the other hand, Rsvp is a French abbreviation that stands for "Répondez s'il vous plaît," which translates to "Please respond." It's an indication on the invitation, urging the invitee to confirm their attendance.
The purpose of an Invitation is to extend a warm welcome, convey necessary event details, and set the tone of the event. Whether it's a wedding, a birthday party, or a business seminar, an invitation provides the first impression of what the attendees can expect. Rsvp, conversely, exists to assist the hosts in gauging how many guests will attend, helping in logistical preparations like seating arrangements, food, and other accommodations.
Invitations can be sent in various forms – printed cards, e-vites, or even verbal invites. The aesthetics, wording, and medium of the invitation often reflect the nature and formality of the event. Rsvp, however, usually comes with specific instructions, either directing guests to reply by a certain date, via a particular method (like a mailed card, email, or phone call), or both.
The act of sending an Invitation is a gesture of inclusivity, signaling to the invitee that their presence is valued. Rsvp acts as a bridge of communication between the host and the invitee, letting the host know whether or not the guest can attend. While the invitation initiates the communication, the Rsvp finalizes it, providing clarity and closure.
Comparison Chart
Definition
A request for a response.
A formal request to attend an event.
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Purpose
To obtain confirmation of attendance.
To inform and request someone's presence at an event.
Origin
Derived from French "Répondez s'il vous plaît."
From Latin "invitatio," meaning "an invitation."
Format
Typically includes a method and deadline for response.
Contains details of the event, like date, time, and venue.
Interactivity
Requires action from the recipient (response).
Can be one-way communication, though often includes Rsvp.
Compare with Definitions
Rsvp
An acronym derived from the French phrase "Répondez s'il vous plaît," meaning "Please respond."
The Rsvp card indicated a deadline for response by next week.
Invitation
An act of welcoming or enticing someone to participate.
The workshop's Invitation was extended to all employees.
Rsvp
A method to confirm attendance or non-attendance for an event.
We need to Rsvp to the wedding by Friday.
Invitation
A document outlining the details of a forthcoming event.
The Invitation listed the date, time, and venue of the conference.
Rsvp
A formal etiquette in event invitations signaling the importance of a reply.
It's polite to promptly Rsvp when asked.
Invitation
An opening or initiation for interaction or collaboration.
The manager's Invitation for feedback was appreciated by the team.
Rsvp
The section of an invitation urging a confirmation of attendance.
The Rsvp section included meal preferences for the gala.
Invitation
A written or verbal request for someone's presence at a specific event or gathering.
We received a beautiful wedding Invitation in the mail.
Rsvp
An essential tool for event planning to ascertain the number of attendees.
The final headcount was based on the Rsvp responses.
Invitation
The act of inviting.
Rsvp
A reply to an invitation, especially an invitation that is delivered or transmitted in writing.
Invitation
A spoken or written request for someone's presence or participation.
Rsvp
To respond to such an invitation with a “yes” or “no.”
Invitation
An allurement, enticement, or attraction.
Rsvp
(informal) RSVP
Will you rsvp for the party?
When did you rsvp to the wedding invitation?
Invitation
See altar call.
Invitation
The act of inviting; solicitation; the requesting of a person's company.
An invitation to a party, to a dinner, or to visit a friend
Invitation
A document or verbal message conveying an invitation.
We need to print off fifty invitations for the party.
Invitation
Allurement; enticement.
Invitation
(fencing) A line that is intentionally left open to encourage the opponent to attack.
Invitation
(Christianity) The brief exhortation introducing the confession in the Anglican communion-office.
Invitation
(bridge) A bid that tells one's partner that game or slam is likely if their hand is at the strong end of what they have indicated.
Invitation
The act of inviting; solicitation; the requesting of a person's company; as, an invitation to a party, to a dinner, or to visit a friend.
Invitation
A document written or printed, or spoken words, conveying the message by which one is invited.
Invitation
Allurement; enticement.
She gives the leer of invitation.
Invitation
A request (spoken or written) to participate or be present or take part in something;
An invitation to lunch
She threw the invitation away
Invitation
A tempting allurement;
She was an invitation to trouble
Invitation
A gesture that indicates a person's value and desired inclusion in an activity.
Their open-house Invitation was a way to introduce the new office.
Common Curiosities
What does Rsvp stand for?
Rsvp stands for the French phrase "Répondez s'il vous plaît," meaning "Please respond."
Why is Rsvp important?
Rsvp helps hosts determine the number of attendees, aiding in event preparations.
Is it mandatory to Rsvp to every Invitation?
While not always mandatory, it's courteous to Rsvp, especially if it's explicitly requested.
What if I Rsvp and then can't attend?
It's polite to inform the host of the change as soon as possible.
How do I respond to an Rsvp?
You respond as per the method indicated, often by mail, phone, or email, confirming your attendance or non-attendance.
Are digital invitations and e-vites considered proper?
Yes, digital invitations have become widely accepted, especially for less formal events.
Can an Invitation be verbal?
Yes, invitations can be extended verbally, though written forms provide more details.
Can an Invitation be casual?
Yes, invitations can range from formal to casual based on the nature of the event.
Is an Rsvp the same as an Invitation?
No, while an Invitation requests someone's presence, an Rsvp is a request for a response to that invitation.
Do all invitations come with an Rsvp request?
Not always, but it's common for events where the number of attendees matters.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
