a measured answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a measured answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is thoughtful, careful, and considered, often in a context where precision and thoughtfulness are valued. Example: "In response to the complex question, she provided a measured answer that took all perspectives into account."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A measured answer.

The Guardian - Music

Better still, he could have avoided all this hassle, and his club's supporters their embarrassment, if he had simply given a measured answer to a respectfully asked question.

The Guardian - Sport

When I asked Cline whether she felt young women were particularly drawn to cult-like groups, she gave a measured answer.

Vice

As Trump calls with wide-ranging queries including the legalities of invading Nordstrom, arresting a cat for treason and how the line of succession works, the former commander in chief somehow always finds a measured answer.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Beckham was then asked who he enjoyed watching most and gave a rather more measured answer - although he went against current grain after stating Wayne Rooney was having a "good start" to the season.

Independent

Even those assertions are debatable, but his measured answer was almost exactly the opposite of the hyperbolic message he had broadcast into American living rooms.

The New Yorker

The more measured answer the latter.

Huffington Post

Tall and angular, with a measured approach to answering questions, Barnard seems too calm to be driven by political anger, but The Selfish Giant is a film that will make you rage and cry and, if you are a disenfranchised leftie like me, want to throttle any passing Tory politician or Daily Mail leader writer.

The Guardian - Film

"Yeah... a fair bit," he answers in a measured, thoughtful way, a hint of his native Boston accent flattening out his speech.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

For Dr. Dean, a former governor of a small, out-of-the-way state who has less experience on the national or international stage than any other important major-party candidate in memory -- less even than Jimmy Carter or Bill Clinton -- they have come so fast, in a campaign season with a compressed primary schedule, that he has had inadequate time to answer them in a measured manner.

The New York Times

Always courtly, he answers questions in a measured, seemingly straightforward manner that leaves a listener wanting to know far more.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a measured answer" when you want to convey that someone's response is not only correct but also well-considered and appropriate for the situation. It implies a level of maturity and thoughtfulness.

Common error

While grammatically sound, using "a measured answer" in everyday conversation might sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "a thoughtful response" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a measured answer" functions as a noun phrase where "measured" is an adjective modifying the noun "answer". According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show it used to describe responses that are carefully considered and thoughtful.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a measured answer" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a thoughtful, careful, and appropriate response, as confirmed by Ludwig. While not overly common, its presence in reputable news sources indicates its value in formal and objective communication. When crafting your written pieces, consider using "a measured answer" to describe answers that have been carefully thought out and planned. However, be mindful of the setting and avoid using the phrase in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a considered response

Emphasizes the thoughtfulness and deliberation behind the answer.

a thoughtful reply

Highlights the careful consideration given to the answer.

a deliberate answer

Focuses on the intentional and unhurried nature of the response.

a circumspect response

Indicates caution and awareness of potential consequences in the answer.

a well-judged reply

Stresses the appropriateness and good sense of the answer.

a carefully worded answer

Highlights the precision and attention to detail in the phrasing of the answer.

a balanced response

Focuses on fairness and objectivity in the answer.

a prudent answer

Emphasizes wisdom and foresight in the response.

a sober response

Highlights the serious and thoughtful nature of the answer.

a well-thought-out answer

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the thinking process behind the answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "a measured answer" to describe a response that is thoughtful and carefully considered. For example, "The diplomat gave "a measured answer" to the controversial question, avoiding any inflammatory language."

What's a good alternative to "a measured answer"?

Alternatives include "a thoughtful response", "a considered reply", or "a carefully worded answer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a measured answer"?

It's appropriate in formal settings, such as interviews, debates, or serious discussions, where a thoughtful and well-considered response is valued over a quick or off-the-cuff remark.

Is "a measured answer" the same as "a calculated answer"?

While both imply thoughtfulness, "a measured answer" suggests careful consideration and appropriateness, while "a calculated answer" can imply strategic manipulation or self-interest. The connotation differs.