返事は

as for the reply

→ 返事
phrase Uncommon #12,481
as for the reply 返事 means “reply” or “answer,” and は marks it as the topic. Depending on context, it can imply contrast, such as “as for the reply, there was none.”
JA: メールの返事はまだ来ていません。
EN: I still haven't received a reply to my email.

彼の返事は事実上拒絶だった

His reply was, in effect, a rejection.

返事は分かる

I understand the response.

— いまを生きる (1989)

彼の返事は私達の期待に反するものだった

His response was contrary to our expectations.

返事は?

What’s your answer?

— レッドクリフ Part I (2008)

返事は

What’s your answer?

— タクシー運転手 約束は海を越えて (2017)

その返事は私をいらいらさせた

That reply annoyed me.

返事は三日後に来た

The reply came three days later.

ドアをノックしてみたんだけど返事はなかった

I tried knocking on the door, but there was no answer.

彼の返事は実際は弁解にすぎない

His response was really nothing more than an excuse.

返事は約束できないけどメールしてくれていいよ

I can't promise I'll reply, but feel free to email me.

その返事は我がを得たものだった

That response was exactly what I had in mind.

彼女から返事は納得できないものだった

Her response was unsatisfactory.

返事はしなくて構いませんよ

You don't have to reply.

便所掃除返事はいい

He’s quick to respond when it comes to cleaning the toilet.

— ア・フュー・グッドメン (1992)