a unique answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a unique answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a single, distinct response to a question or problem that stands out from others. Example: "In this complex situation, we need to find a unique answer that addresses all the concerns raised by the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

The archeologist Joanne Farchakh has a unique answer to a unique crime.

Independent

But recent progress in string theory paradoxically seems to leave physics further than ever from that dream of a unique answer.

The New York Times - Science

Insistence that there must be a unique answer to what scientific theories really are seems like misplaced dogmatism that obstructs philosophical inquiry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"When you have to give up your fondest dream for what the theory would do" -- a reference to the quest for a unique answer -- "that's a hard thing to swallow".

The New York Times - Science

The Early Hopes Not Particles, But Strings The question of whether strings will provide a unique answer to the universe has been hanging over physicists' heads ever since the modern form of string theory made its triumphal emergence in 1984.

The New York Times - Science

Perhaps the most unexpected one came again from Dr W, who stated: A more interesting question is whether this ratio question has a unique answer if the screens are "rectangular" sections of the surface of a sphere.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

So each answer will be a unique response.

TechCrunch

"I continue to hope that we are overlooking or misunderstanding something and that there is ultimately a more unique answer," he wrote by e-mail.

The New York Times - Science

But Meyers also made sure to push the fellow former "SNL" cast member for a more unique answer here and there.

Huffington Post

It will find unique answers where possible, but will leave in all ambiguities when a unique resolution is impossible without more information.

BMC Genomics

A leave-one-out cross-validation was applied on AdvISER-PYRO to produce a single and unique answer for each SAS signal.

Bioinformatics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking to emphasize the originality or distinctiveness of a solution or response, use "a unique answer" to underscore its exceptional qualities. For example, "The artist's innovative approach provided a unique answer to the challenge of urban decay".

Common error

Avoid using "a unique answer" when the solution or response is merely different but not truly one-of-a-kind. Ensure the answer genuinely stands out and isn't just slightly modified or adapted. For instance, if a problem has multiple viable solutions, describing one as "unique" may be inaccurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a unique answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "unique" modifies the noun "answer". As confirmed by Ludwig, it refers to a response or solution that is distinctly different and original. This phrase is commonly used to highlight the exceptional nature of a particular solution.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a unique answer" is a phrase used to describe a solution or response that is distinctly different and original. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Science, highlighting its relevance in describing innovative approaches and solutions. While the phrase is versatile, it’s important to ensure that the described answer is truly one-of-a-kind to avoid misusing the term. Consider alternatives like "a distinctive solution" or "an exceptional resolution" to fine-tune the nuance of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a one-of-a-kind solution

Emphasizes the singularity and exclusivity of the solution.

a distinctive solution

Emphasizes the distinctiveness and difference of the solution.

a singular response

Highlights the uniqueness and individuality of the response.

an unparalleled response

Highlights the unmatched nature and originality of the response.

an exceptional resolution

Focuses on the high quality and outstanding nature of the resolution.

a custom-made answer

Stresses the tailored and personalized nature of the answer.

a novel explanation

Stresses the newness and originality of the explanation.

a groundbreaking solution

Emphasizes the innovative and revolutionary nature of the solution.

an original reply

Underscores the inventiveness and creativity of the reply.

an unconventional response

Highlights the unusual and non-traditional nature of the response.

FAQs

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

You can use "a unique answer" to describe a solution or response that is distinctly different and innovative. For example, "The engineer developed a unique answer to the problem of energy inefficiency."

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

You can use alternatives like "a distinctive solution", "an exceptional resolution", or "a novel explanation" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very unique answer"?

Yes, "very unique answer" is generally considered redundant. The term "unique" already implies being one-of-a-kind, so adding "very" is unnecessary. Simply use "a unique answer".

What is the difference between "a unique answer" and "a correct answer"?

"A correct answer" implies that the solution is factually right. "A unique answer" suggests that the solution is original and different from typical or expected responses. A unique answer can also be correct, but uniqueness focuses on its originality.