a fair answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fair answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the appropriateness or reasonableness of a response to a question or situation. Example: "After considering all the factors, I believe that a fair answer would be to offer a compromise that satisfies both parties."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"You want a fair answer?

The Guardian - Sport

I think that's a fair answer.

The New York Times

It was a fair answer.

The Guardian

Ebony magazine ran an article last year asking "Does the Rev. Jesse Jackson still matter?"A fair answer would be: less than before.

The Economist

I think a fair answer is a circumstantial one, depending in part on just how jammed and hectic a restaurant is on the night in question, on how little (or much) the restaurant can afford to bend.

The New York Times

This is simple, and has obvious merits: "you give, we'll give" is a fair answer to any employees inclined to accuse the bosses of playing Scrooge.India's Tata Group is urging its constituents to give "substantially" more than employees; Computer Associates, of New York, says it will give twice as much.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A fairer answer can be had by looking at paintings that used to be famous and seeing how they have appreciated.

Forbes

To the Sports Editor: However old-fashioned, the chain system does provide a definitive, and fair, answer to whether a first down has been made.

The New York Times

But voters may defend a dead heat as the only fair answer to a campaign consumed by the two candidates' focus-grouped gropings for political dead center.

The New York Times

Before the weekend, I would have suggested that the fair answer would be: a bit.

The Guardian - Opinion

The only fair answer is: American employers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fair answer" when you want to convey that a response is not only correct but also ethically sound and just.

Common error

A common mistake is assuming that everyone has the same understanding of what constitutes "fair". To avoid ambiguity, clarify the specific criteria that make the answer fair within the given context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a fair answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "fair" modifies the noun "answer". Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in contexts where the speaker is evaluating the justness or appropriateness of a response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fair answer" is a commonly used phrase that denotes an equitable and unbiased response. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples shows that it's grammatically correct and versatile, fitting comfortably in news reports, general discussions, and even formal business communications. The phrase implies that impartiality, objectivity, and justness are all qualities present in the response, highlighting its significance in evaluating decisions and explanations. While the phrase is well-regarded, it’s important to ensure the criteria for fairness are clear to maintain a shared understanding, to make the communication even more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a just response

Emphasizes moral correctness and impartiality in the response.

an equitable reply

Highlights fairness and impartiality in the answer.

a reasonable response

Suggests the answer is logical and appropriate given the situation.

an appropriate answer

Focuses on the suitability and relevance of the answer to the question.

a balanced reply

Implies the answer considers all sides and perspectives.

a truthful answer

Highlights the honesty and accuracy of the answer.

an unbiased response

Emphasizes the lack of prejudice or favoritism in the answer.

a legitimate response

Indicates that the answer is valid and acceptable.

a well-considered answer

Suggests the answer has been carefully thought out and is not given hastily.

a satisfactory response

Focuses on meeting the requirements or expectations of the questioner.

FAQs

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

You can use "a fair answer" to describe a response that is just and equitable. For example, "The judge sought "a fair answer" from the defendant to ensure a just outcome."

What can I say instead of "a fair answer"?

You can use alternatives like "a just response", "an equitable reply", or "a reasonable response" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a fair answer" or "a just answer"?

Both ""a fair answer"" and "a just answer" are correct, but "fair" often implies impartiality and objectivity, while "just" emphasizes moral correctness.

What's the difference between "a fair answer" and "a satisfactory answer"?

"A fair answer" focuses on the impartiality and equity of the response, whereas "a satisfactory answer" implies that the response meets the requirements or expectations, even if it's not necessarily the most equitable outcome.