A1noun1K

Answer

UK /["/ˈɑːnsə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈænsər/"]/

Definition

something that you say, write or do to react to a question or situation

In simple words: A reply to a question or problem.

Examples

  • The teacher expects an answer from every student.
  • Can you give me the answer to this math problem?
  • The answer lies in the explanation we discussed earlier.
  • She was surprised by his answer to her question.
  • It's important to know the correct answer during the test.
  • He didn't quite know how to answer her,
  • The answer was not what I expected.
  • If you have a question, I will always try to give an answer.
  • The answer could be found in the book.
  • Find the answer in your notes.

Usage notes

Use 'answer' when providing a response to questions in both spoken and written forms. Avoid using it in very formal or technical contexts where 'response' may be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

answer + object

Memory hint

Think of 'answer' like 'a-swer' — a way to 'swerve' back into the conversation with a reply.

Collocations

  • brief
  • one-word
  • quick
  • get
  • have
  • receive
  • come
  • in answer to
  • answer to
  • acceptable
  • appropriate
  • correct
  • give
  • submit
  • guess
  • answer to
  • easy
  • instant
  • pat
  • have
  • know
  • look for
  • come to somebody
  • depend on something
  • lie in something
  • answer to
  • have all the answers
  • know all the answers

Synonyms

  • reply
  • response
  • solution
  • retort
  • rejoinder

Antonyms

  • question
  • ask

Common mistakes

  • Using 'answer' as a noun and verb interchangeably without context.
  • Confusing 'answer' with 'respond' in formal writing.
  • Incorrectly conjugating 'answer' in past tense.