a decisive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a decisive answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an answer that is clear, conclusive, and leaves no room for doubt. Example: "After much deliberation, the committee finally provided a decisive answer regarding the project's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

We don't have a decisive answer yet".

The Guardian - Tech

The fact that no injunction was granted is not a decisive answer.

Cornell University

The Carnegie Hall concerts did not provide a decisive answer, but there was reason for hope.

The New York Times - Arts

My middle son's reply to his brother — "Now I'm about to punch you" — provided a decisive answer: probably not.

The New York Times

"The question of English votes for English laws, the so-called West Lothian question, deserves a decisive answer," he said.

The Economist

The question of English votes for English laws, the so-called West Lothian question, deserves a decisive answer".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

On the rare occasion the Orange converted a long-range attempt — they finished 2 of 19 — the Huskies had an equally decisive answer, and they stretched their lead to 33 points in the third quarter before Syracuse closed the gap with a 16-0 run.

The New York Times - Sports

If I wanted a quicker, more decisive answer, he suggested, why not just try Ritalin for a day?

Huffington Post

But the decisive answer seems to be, that unless the Hamilton Company are the corporation with whom the plaintiff contracted, he has no cause of action, and the argument for the plaintiff would state his case out of court.

Harvard University

If it be said that these are all differences of degree, the decisive answer is that recognition of differences of degree is inherent in due regard for due process.

Cornell University

As the discussion came to a close, Gourevitch asked a question that was perhaps waiting to be asked: "Is Obama serious about this?" While no decisive answer was determined, Hollander noted that it is the Obama administration that is behind the appeal against Slahi's habeas corpus petition that resulted in a judge ordering him to be released in 2010.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a decisive answer" when you want to convey that the response is clear, final, and leaves no room for doubt. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal writing contexts.

Common error

While "a decisive answer" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "a clear answer" or "a straight answer" when speaking with friends or family.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a decisive answer" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or complement within a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to indicate a final and conclusive resolution.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a decisive answer" is a noun phrase signifying a clear, conclusive, and unambiguous resolution to a question or issue. Ludwig highlights that it is commonly used in News & Media, Academia, and Science and has neutral register. While grammatically correct and generally suitable for various contexts, it's important to consider the formality level of the setting and opt for more relaxed alternatives in casual conversations. Using alternatives like "a conclusive answer" or "a definitive response" can further refine your expression depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conclusive answer

Focuses on the finality and lack of further debate in the answer.

a definitive response

Emphasizes the authoritative and unquestionable nature of the response.

a clear resolution

Highlights the clarity and problem-solving aspect of the answer.

a firm conclusion

Stresses the strength and certainty behind the derived conclusion.

an unequivocal reply

Underscores the lack of ambiguity in the given reply.

a categorical statement

Highlights the absolute and unconditional nature of the statement.

a resolute declaration

Emphasizes the firm and determined nature of the declaration.

a final determination

Focuses on the ultimate and unchangeable nature of the decision.

a settled matter

Indicates that the issue has been resolved and is no longer open for discussion.

a straightforward solution

Highlights the simplicity and directness of the solution.

FAQs

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

You can use "a decisive answer" to describe a response that is clear and leaves no room for doubt. For example, "The board's decision provided "a decisive answer" to the ongoing debate".

What are some alternatives to "a decisive answer"?

You can use alternatives like "a conclusive response", "a definitive answer", or "a clear resolution" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a decisive answer" or "a clear answer"?

"A decisive answer" implies finality and a lack of ambiguity, while "a clear answer" simply means the answer is easy to understand. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "a decisive answer" and "a straightforward answer"?

"A decisive answer" suggests a final and conclusive resolution to a question or issue. A "straightforward answer" indicates a direct and honest response, regardless of its finality.