a definitive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a definitive answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you are seeking a clear, conclusive response to a question or issue. Example: "After much deliberation, the committee finally provided a definitive answer regarding the project's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He never settled on a definitive answer.

The New York Times - Arts

– now has a definitive answer: both.

The Guardian - Opinion

Nobody could provide a definitive answer".

The Guardian

"I just don't have a definitive answer.

The New York Times

Cameron could not give a definitive answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

I didn't give anybody a definitive answer".

The New York Times - Sports

"I can't give you a definitive answer".

The Guardian

A definitive answer would make me feel more assured".

The Guardian

None of the officials could give a definitive answer.

The New Yorker

"I could not find a definitive answer," Ms. Jones said.

The New York Times

That woud be a definitive answer to most every question.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a definitive answer" when you need to convey that a question or problem has a clear, final, and authoritative resolution. Ensure the context warrants such certainty.

Common error

Avoid using "a definitive answer" when the situation is complex or uncertain. Using it prematurely can mislead your audience or undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a definitive answer" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies a response that is authoritative, final, and leaves no room for doubt, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a definitive answer" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies a clear, final, and authoritative response. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in diverse contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific domains. While generally neutral to formal in register, it's essential to ensure that the context warrants the certainty it conveys. Related phrases like ""a conclusive answer"" or ""a clear answer"" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conclusive answer

Emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of the answer.

a decisive answer

Highlights the firmness and lack of hesitation in the answer.

a clear answer

Focuses on the understandability and lack of ambiguity in the answer.

an unambiguous answer

Stresses the absence of multiple interpretations.

a certain answer

Implies a high degree of confidence and reliability.

a final answer

Indicates that the answer is the last and unchangeable.

a specific answer

Focuses on the detailed and precise nature of the answer.

an explicit answer

Highlights the clear and direct nature of the answer.

a concrete answer

Implies that the answer is practical and well-grounded.

a straight answer

Highlights the directness and honesty of the answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "a definitive answer" to indicate a clear and final resolution to a question or problem. For example, "The research provided "a definitive answer" regarding the effectiveness of the new treatment".

What are some alternatives to saying "a definitive answer"?

Alternatives include "a conclusive answer", "a clear answer", or "a decisive answer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a definitive answer"?

It is inappropriate to use "a definitive answer" when there is still uncertainty or ambiguity surrounding the issue. Using it in such cases can be misleading or create a false impression of certainty.

Is there a difference between "a definitive answer" and "a comprehensive answer"?

Yes, while "a definitive answer" implies a final and clear resolution, "a comprehensive answer" suggests a thorough and detailed explanation, which may not necessarily be conclusive.