a definite answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"a definite answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a concrete response to a question or statement. For example, "We were looking for a definite answer to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I wanted a definite answer".

The New York Times - Health

I can't give a definite answer, though.

The New York Times - Sports

"You know, I don't have a definite answer.

The Washington Post

It's a reasonable question with a definite answer: no.

The New York Times

"I don't think there has been a definite answer," Mr. Funtleyder said.

The New York Times

Some of the work is controversial, so we need more data to have a definite answer".

The Guardian

It's very difficult to give a definite answer straight after the game".

The Guardian - Sport

It would be a bad sign if I had a definite answer to that, wouldn't it?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The question, "What does ISIS want?" baffling to so many people, has received a definite answer.

The New Yorker

But the best answer is that we don't have a definite answer.

The New York Times

" 'Are we Jewish?' And she never would give me a definite answer.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definite answer" when you want to emphasize that the response is clear, unambiguous, and leaves no room for doubt. For example, "The company needed a definite answer before proceeding with the project."

Common error

Avoid using "a definite answer" in contexts where subjectivity or opinion is expected. It implies an unwarranted level of certainty where nuance is more appropriate. For example, instead of seeking "a definite answer" about someone's feelings, consider a more open-ended question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definite answer" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., 'need', 'seek', 'provide') or the complement of a preposition. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definite answer" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express the need for a clear and unambiguous response. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted across various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While it's crucial to avoid overusing it in subjective situations, it effectively conveys the importance of certainty and resolution. Alternatives such as "a conclusive response" or "an unequivocal reply" can be used to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conclusive response

Focuses on the finality and decisiveness of the answer.

an unequivocal reply

Emphasizes the unambiguous and clear nature of the answer.

a clear resolution

Highlights the resolving aspect of the answer, suggesting it settles a question or issue.

a firm confirmation

Stresses the aspect of validation and certainty in the answer.

a precise determination

Suggests a carefully calculated or exact answer.

a specific response

Highlights the detailed and targeted nature of the answer.

a certain resolution

Emphasizes the lack of ambiguity of the answer.

a decided conclusion

Emphasizes the decisiveness and finality of the result.

a clear indication

Focuses on the revealing nature of the answer, pointing towards a specific outcome.

a straight answer

Highlights the directness and honesty of the response.

FAQs

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

You can use "a definite answer" to express the need for a clear and unambiguous response. For example, "The committee requested "a definite answer" regarding the budget allocation."

What are some alternatives to "a definite answer"?

Alternatives include "a conclusive response", "an unequivocal reply", or "a clear resolution", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "a definite answer" or "a definitive answer"?

Both "a definite answer" and "a definitive answer" are grammatically correct, but "definitive" implies a higher degree of authority and finality. "Definite" simply means clear and unambiguous.

When is it appropriate to ask for "a definite answer"?

It is appropriate to ask for "a definite answer" when you require clarity and certainty, especially in situations involving decisions, plans, or critical information. However, avoid demanding "a definite answer" on matters that are inherently subjective or uncertain.