反问 (fǎn wèn): Ask in reply (Verb) — Meaning & Stroke Order

He didn't answer directly, but instead asked a question in reply.

Isn't this your fault?

He did not directly refute it, but instead used a clever counter-question to defuse the awkwardness.

In debates, he never answers directly, always avoiding the core issue by asking questions in return.

Since you say so, let me ask in return, why didn't you remind me at that time?

When asked about the reason for the project's failure, the manager did not explain but instead asked in reply whether the team had done their best.