a comprehensive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a comprehensive answer" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used when referring to a thorough or complete response to a question or issue. For example, "Thank you for providing a comprehensive answer to my inquiry. It answered all of my questions and gave me a clear understanding of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

He knows we need a comprehensive answer.

The New York Times

Robert Gibbs, Obama's communications director, defended his candidate for offering a comprehensive answer to the question.

The Washington Post

My trip to India this week provided one rather interesting perspective (not a comprehensive answer, I hasten to add).

The Guardian - Travel

In Dunsmuir and in Mavi, the Supreme Court did not provide a comprehensive answer to that question.

Harvard University

The sisters believe they now have a comprehensive answer to the riddle, because their CD also features music by Saint-Saëns and Debussy, so listeners can judge.

The Guardian - Books

Recalling a question put to him by his grandfather — "What's wrong with that place?" — Schmidle writes, "I realized that I was no closer to offering a comprehensive answer now than I had been" at the start of the journey.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

For a truly comprehensive answer, we always recommend a well-constructed 360 evaluation, in which your own views of your strengths and weaknesses are enriched by those of your boss, your direct reports, your colleagues, and other associates.

Harvard Business Review

For a more comprehensive answer, see "How can I get an HUP work in an alternative format for use by those with print-related disabilities?" in our FAQ.

Harvard University

The company said it regularly fielded questions from its customers about the timing of new app releases, which actually vary a bit from category to category, and wanted to offer a more comprehensive answer to these questions.

TechCrunch

There isn't a good, comprehensive answer on this – no one collects global statistics, and it's also not fair to compare a rickety coaster in a travelling fair to a state-of-the-art fixed coaster.

The Guardian - Travel

That's a pretty comprehensive answer.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity and completeness in your writing, use "a comprehensive answer" to signal that you are providing a thorough and well-considered response to a question or issue.

Common error

Avoid using "a comprehensive answer" when a simpler, more direct response would suffice. Overusing the term can make your writing sound unnecessarily verbose and pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comprehensive answer" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb, describing the nature of the response being given. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correctly and commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a comprehensive answer" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a thorough and complete response to a question or issue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. It's frequently found in news, science, and academic contexts, signaling that the response covers all relevant aspects and provides a clear understanding. While synonyms like "a complete response" or "a thorough explanation" can be used, it's important to avoid overuse and ensure the level of detail matches the situation. By considering these nuances, you can effectively employ "a comprehensive answer" to enhance the clarity and impact of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complete response

Focuses on the completeness of the reply, similar to "a comprehensive answer".

a thorough explanation

Emphasizes the depth and detail of the explanation provided.

a detailed account

Highlights the level of detail and precision in the response.

an exhaustive analysis

Implies a very thorough and complete analysis, akin to a comprehensive answer.

a full exposition

Stresses the completeness and clarity of the presentation.

an all-encompassing reply

Indicates that the answer covers all aspects of the question.

a well-rounded solution

Highlights that the solution provided is all-inclusive.

a holistic overview

Stresses the interconnectedness of the issues covered.

a conclusive statement

Implies that the answer is definitive and leaves no room for doubt.

an elaborate response

Highlights that the response is detailed and intricate.

FAQs

How can I use "a comprehensive answer" in a sentence?

You can use "a comprehensive answer" to describe a thorough and complete response. For example, "The report provided "a comprehensive answer" to all of our questions regarding the company's financial performance."

What are some alternatives to "a comprehensive answer"?

You can use alternatives like "a complete response", "a thorough explanation", or "a detailed account" depending on the context.

Is it better to provide "a comprehensive answer" or a brief one?

It depends on the situation. If the question requires a detailed and thorough explanation, then "a comprehensive answer" is appropriate. However, if a brief and concise answer is sufficient, avoid overcomplicating the response.

What does it mean to give "a comprehensive answer"?

To give "a comprehensive answer" means to provide a response that covers all relevant aspects of the question or issue, leaving no significant details unaddressed. It implies a thorough and well-considered explanation.