an unequivocal answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unequivocal answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that the answer is clear, unambiguous, and without any doubt. Example: "After reviewing all the evidence, the committee provided an unequivocal answer regarding the policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

I give them always an unequivocal answer.

The Guardian

He seldom gives an unequivocal answer when talking about himself.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"[The report] provides an unequivocal answer to the main question of 'Who started the war'," Russia's EU envoy, Vladimir Chizhov, said.

Independent

WHEN Jill Abramson, the executive editor, answered questions from readers this month on the Times Web site, she gave an unequivocal answer to a question about Times editorials.

The New York Times

Most of the French have come to consider capital punishment as a moral question, Ms. Bacharan said — and one with an unequivocal answer.

The New York Times

Anyone unsure of who "won" the second presidential debate had only to consult a newspaper, Web site or television network yesterday for an unequivocal answer.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

A pretty unequivocal answer for once in Lost's long and winding tale.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Let me give you a clear, unequivocal answer," Mr. Gingrich said.

The New York Times

It wasn't self evident to Scottish Nationalist MP Mike Weir, who pressed again: "Will the Secretary of State give a clear, unequivocal answer to this question?

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Bush, by contrast, has never backed away from his consistent critique of Mr. Gore -- "He seems guided by polls and focus groups that drain politics of its courage" -- and the vice president's inability to give a direct, unequivocal answer to almost any question put to him made the accusation stick.

The New York Times

A different, and unequivocal, answer came from Gail Baxter, the parent coordinator for the school district and a vice president of the districtwide Parents and Teachers Association, when she was asked whether the district had changed for the better.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an unequivocal answer" to add emphasis when you want to clearly communicate that there is no room for doubt or misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "an unequivocal answer" in very casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "a clear answer" or "a straight answer" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unequivocal answer" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, denoting a clear and unambiguous response to a question or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

41%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unequivocal answer" is a noun phrase used to emphasize the clarity and lack of ambiguity in a response. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts, such as news, scientific reports, and professional communications. Its frequency is considered uncommon, adding emphasis to the situations it is used. Alternatives include "a definitive response" and "a clear-cut reply", depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Overusing it in casual conversation may sound overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a definitive response

Emphasizes the finality and decisiveness of the answer.

a clear-cut reply

Highlights the lack of ambiguity or hesitation in the response.

a plain answer

Focuses on the simplicity and directness of the answer, avoiding complexity.

a categorical affirmation

Stresses the absolute and unconditional nature of the positive answer.

a firm assurance

Implies a strong and confident guarantee.

an explicit confirmation

Stresses that the answer is expressed directly and openly.

a straight answer

Highlights the honesty and candor of the response.

a conclusive determination

Signifies the answer resolves a matter with certainty.

a positive declaration

Focuses on the affirmative and assertive nature of the answer.

a decided response

Emphasizes that the decision has been reached and is no longer open to debate.

FAQs

How to use "an unequivocal answer" in a sentence?

You can use "an unequivocal answer" when you want to emphasize the clarity and lack of ambiguity in a response. For example: "The data provided "an unequivocal answer" to the research question".

What can I say instead of "an unequivocal answer"?

You can use alternatives like "a definitive response", "a clear-cut reply", or "a plain answer" depending on the context.

Is "an unequivocal answer" formal or informal?

"An unequivocal answer" leans towards the formal side, suggesting a response that is clear, direct, and leaves no room for ambiguity. In informal settings, simpler phrases like "a straight answer" might be more suitable.

Which is correct, "an unequivocal answer" or "a unequivocal answer"?

"An unequivocal answer" is correct. Since "unequivocal" starts with a vowel sound, it requires the indefinite article "an" instead of "a".