a third answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a third answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an additional response or solution in a series of answers. Example: "After considering the first two responses, I realized there was a third answer that addressed the issue more effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This book might be a third answer.

The New York Times - Books

But there is a third answer to Breyer's question about the difference the court could make: it is to satisfy public opinion's growing desire for closure and the nation's need for finality.

The New York Times

Both Mr Galliano and Mr Gaultier are perfectly capable of making wearable clothes, so the idea must be to create publicity; but this only serves to increase the sneers of the fashion-averse.No escapeHowever, there may be a third answer: a resentment of the fact that we are all fashion victims.

The Economist

A third answer, favoured by the winning clubs because of the extra TV money involved, would be to have a Europe-wide "super league" (a European Champions League has existed since 1994).But whatever the answer, one thing is sure, in soccer and in other sports: Europe's politicians will get involved.

The Economist

After all, Germany's budgetary position is worse than France's, so Germany's hardline support for the pact may change once this month's elections are out of the way.Conceivably, there is also a third answer: to rely on the left swept from parliamentary power in the June elections to remain in disarray, too weak to hit the government hard.

The Economist

A third answer is that while we aren't hearing so much these days from the self-styled deficit hawks, the monetary hawks — economists, politicians and officials who keep warning that low interest rates will have dire consequences — have, if anything, gotten even more vociferous.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

A: First answer is how do you get beyond early adopters… anyone's documents, HR summary, your EOBs, can be sent to [email protected].

TechCrunch

When asked whether they had chronic kidney disease, however, more than a third answered "no".

The New York Times - Health

A first answer was to set up a European assembly, consisting of nominated national MPs.

The Economist

The McKay Commission proposes a fourth answer which, however, is somewhat feeble.

The Guardian - Opinion

Has enough been done to check American corporate malfeasance?A first answer is that prosecutors, at least, have more work ahead.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting multiple solutions or perspectives, use "a third answer" to clearly indicate that you are introducing an additional point distinct from the previous two.

Common error

Avoid using "a third answer" if only two answers or solutions are being presented, as this can confuse the reader about the intended sequence or number of options.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a third answer" functions as a noun phrase that introduces an additional solution, explanation, or perspective in a sequence. As illustrated by Ludwig, it logically follows the presentation of a first and second answer. It clearly signals an incremental step in reasoning or problem-solving.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a third answer" is a noun phrase used to introduce an additional solution or perspective after two previous ones have been presented. It’s grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, as supported by examples from news, science, and encyclopedia sources. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to offer a more complete or refined understanding. To use it effectively, ensure that a clear sequence of at least two prior points exists to avoid confusing readers. Consider using alternatives such as "an additional response" or "another possibility" when appropriate. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings, though its frequency is relatively uncommon.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an additional response

Directly refers to another answer being provided, similar to the original phrase.

a supplementary reply

Formal way to refer to adding another response.

the third option

Refers to "a third answer" as a choice among others.

the third alternative

Similar to "the third option", but uses a more formal term.

an alternative solution

Emphasizes the problem-solving aspect, focusing on a different approach to resolve an issue.

a third way

Implies there's more than one approach to the problem at hand, including "a third answer".

a further explanation

Highlights the act of providing more details or clarification.

another possibility

Suggests an additional option or scenario that could be considered.

a different perspective

Focuses on offering a varied viewpoint or outlook.

a distinct interpretation

Highlights a unique understanding or reading of a situation or text.

FAQs

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

Use "a third answer" when you're presenting another solution or explanation after already presenting two others. For example, "The first approach failed, the second was promising, but "a third answer" proved to be the most effective".

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

You can use alternatives like "an additional response", "another possibility", or "a further explanation" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to have a first and second answer before introducing "a third answer"?

Yes, "a third answer" implies that there are already two preceding answers or solutions that have been presented. Without the first two, it's better to use phrases like "an initial response" or "a possible solution".

When is it appropriate to use "a third answer" in academic writing?

In academic writing, "a third answer" can be used when discussing multiple hypotheses, theories, or interpretations. For instance, "The first theory suggests X, the second proposes Y, and "a third answer" considers both X and Y".