What's the difference between RSVP and RSVP?

Both forms come from the French "répondez s'il vous plaît", which means "please reply". In modern British English, the standard is to write RSVP in capital letters with no punctuation. You will sometimes see R.S.V.P. in older invitations or in American publications, but the meaning is identical.

Some people wonder whether RSVP means "reply only if you are coming". It does not. RSVP means you must reply whether you can attend or not. A reply of "no" is just as important as a reply of "yes". The couple needs to know final numbers for the venue, caterers and seating plan.

Another common confusion is between RSVP and "regrets only". "Regrets only" means you only contact the couple if you cannot attend. RSVP means everyone must reply. If the invitation says RSVP, do not assume silence means yes.

If you see RSVP on an invitation, treat it as a request for a definite answer by the date given. Whether it is written RSVP or R.S.V.P., the rule is the same: reply promptly and clearly.