a simple answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a response that is straightforward and easy to understand. Example: "When asked about the solution, she provided a simple answer that everyone could grasp."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Yes It's a simple answer.

The Guardian

There is apparently not a simple answer.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Haas sidestepped a simple answer.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr Wilders has a simple answer.

The Economist

I wish there was a simple answer.

Independent

"I gave you a simple answer.

The Guardian

Mr. Brady doesn't have a simple answer.

The New York Times - Books

That does not have a simple answer".

The New York Times

But is there a simple answer?

The Guardian

Weatherford had a simple answer: longevity.

The New York Times - Sports

I have a simple answer to that.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a simple answer" to introduce an explanation that is easy to understand, but be prepared to offer further details if needed.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple answer" when addressing complex or nuanced issues. A seemingly easy answer may lack the depth required for full comprehension, potentially leading to misunderstanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple answer" functions as a noun phrase acting as a direct object or subject complement. As shown in Ludwig, it typically refers to a straightforward and easily understood explanation or solution to a question or problem.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple answer" is a commonly used phrase that describes a straightforward and easily understood explanation or solution. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media. While it implies clarity, writers should be cautious not to oversimplify complex issues. When seeking alternative phrasing, "a straightforward response" or "an easy explanation" can often be suitable substitutes depending on the specific nuance desired. Remember to provide further details if necessary, to prevent any possible misunderstanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy explanation

Emphasizes the ease of understanding the explanation.

a straightforward response

Highlights the directness and clarity of the response.

a clear resolution

Focuses on the clarity of the resolution provided.

a basic solution

Stresses the fundamental nature of the solution.

an elementary reply

Indicates the reply is basic and uncomplicated.

a plain response

Highlights the unadorned and straightforward nature of the answer.

an uncomplicated explanation

Focuses on the lack of complexity in the explanation.

a direct clarification

Emphasizes the directness of the clarification.

a concise summary

Highlights the brief and efficient nature of the summary.

a rudimentary account

Suggests the account is in its early stages of development or understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple answer" to introduce a straightforward explanation or solution. For example, "The problem seemed complicated, but the expert provided "a simple answer"".

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

You can use alternatives like "a straightforward response", "an easy explanation", or "a clear resolution" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to offer "a simple answer"?

It's appropriate to offer ""a simple answer"" when the question or situation allows for a direct, uncomplicated explanation, and when further detail is not immediately necessary.

What's the difference between "a simple answer" and "a simplistic answer"?

"A simple answer" implies clarity and ease of understanding, whereas "a simplistic answer" suggests that the answer may be too basic and lacks necessary depth. A "simplistic answer" can be misleading or inadequate.