Speech:
* Retort: A quick, witty, and often cutting reply.
* Repartee: A brisk and clever exchange of remarks.
* Comeback: A clever or witty answer, especially one that is unexpected or surprising.
* Snipe: A sharp or critical remark.
* Barbs: Sharp, often hurtful, remarks.
Action:
* Snap: A sudden, decisive action.
* Counterpunch: A swift and forceful response.
* Rebuke: A sharp reprimand or criticism.
* Retaliation: A quick and forceful response to an attack.
* Defense: A quick and effective action to protect oneself from harm.
The specific term you choose will depend on the context and the desired effect. For example, a "retort" might be used in a humorous situation, while a "rebuke" would be used in a more serious context.
Here are some examples:
Speech:
* "You're wrong!" she retorted, her eyes flashing.
* "That's the best you can do?" he scoffed, his voice laced with sarcasm.
* "Oh, you're so clever," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
Action:
* He snapped his fingers and the waiter appeared.
* She countered his attack with a well-placed jab.
* He rebuked the child for his bad behavior.
The key is to choose a word that accurately describes the sharpness and swiftness of the response.