a concrete answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a concrete answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are seeking a specific, clear, and definitive response to a question or issue. Example: "After much discussion, we finally reached a concrete answer regarding the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

The history of color research provided a concrete answer.

The New Yorker

This is just another one of those questions to which I don't have a concrete answer.

The New York Times

For two hours, she managed to avoid giving anything like a concrete answer.

The New Yorker

In an age of uncertainty, biology can appear to provide a concrete answer for behavior that is difficult to explain.

The New York Times - Health

Popova : I think one of the most human tendencies is to want to have a concrete answer and a quantifiable measure of everything.

The New York Times

I intended to offer points of departure for the imagination rather than provide a concrete answer to the question of how it will all end.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

A trove of new e-mails and notes released as part of the commission's investigation may provide a more concrete answer — one that presents a slightly different version of history than the one the government would have had us believe.

The New York Times

I feel like I'm not giving a super concrete answer here but, it really does just come down to a gut check.

Vice

I feel like I'm not giving a super concrete answer here, but it really does just come down to a gut check.

Vice

"The better you do, the more people expect of you and the more I expect of myself," she admits, finally, not satisfied with her response but unable to land upon a more concrete answer.

The Guardian - Sport

What is it that art says to you or does to you? Janetta Rebold Benton: I don't have a precise, concrete answer.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In situations where abstract concepts or theories are being discussed, use "a concrete answer" to signal a shift towards real-world applications or demonstrable results.

Common error

Avoid using "a concrete answer" in purely theoretical or speculative discussions where tangible, verifiable results are not expected. Opt for terms like "potential solution" or "possible explanation" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a concrete answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "concrete" serves as an adjective modifying "answer". It typically identifies a response that is clear, tangible, and practical. Ludwig AI analysis confirms this usage through numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

29%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a concrete answer" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a clear, tangible, and practical response. As Ludwig AI shows, it frequently appears in news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias, demonstrating its versatility across various contexts. While alternatives like "a tangible answer" or "a definite answer" exist, "a concrete answer" emphasizes real-world application and clarity. Using it effectively involves ensuring it aligns with the context, avoiding overuse in purely theoretical discussions, and leveraging its strength in conveying certainty and practicality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a tangible answer

Focuses on the answer being palpable or easily understood, implying a practical quality.

a practical answer

Highlights the answer's utility and feasibility in real-world scenarios.

a definite answer

Stresses the clarity and certainty of the response, leaving no doubt or vagueness.

a precise answer

Emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the response, leaving little room for ambiguity.

a certain answer

Emphasizes the sureness and reliability of the response, implying a high degree of confidence.

a solid answer

Suggests the answer is well-founded and reliable, offering a firm basis for decision-making.

a substantive answer

Highlights the importance and significance of the response, indicating it addresses key points.

a substantial answer

Indicates the answer is comprehensive and thorough, covering all necessary aspects.

a detailed answer

Focuses on the thoroughness and comprehensiveness of the response, providing a high level of specificity.

a realistic answer

Focuses on the answer's alignment with actual possibilities and constraints, rather than ideal scenarios.

FAQs

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

You can use "a concrete answer" when you want to emphasize that a response is clear, specific, and practical. For example: "The study provided "a concrete answer" to the question of how exercise affects mood."

What are some alternatives to "a concrete answer"?

Alternatives to "a concrete answer" include "a tangible answer", "a practical answer", or "a definite answer". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "a concrete answer" and "a definitive answer"?

"A concrete answer" implies the response is tangible and practical, while "a definitive answer" suggests it's authoritative and final. Although similar, a concrete answer emphasizes real-world application, whereas a definitive answer stresses the conclusiveness of the information.

Is "a concrete answer" formal or informal?

"A concrete answer" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is more common in professional and academic settings where clarity and practicality are valued. It is suitable for any situation where a clear and tangible response is required.