answer carefully

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "answer carefully" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to respond with thoughtfulness or precision, often in contexts like tests, surveys, or important discussions. Example: "Please answer carefully, as your responses will greatly influence our decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The answer: carefully.

The New York Times - Arts

I had to think about it, and answer carefully.

The New York Times

Mr Sandel listens to each answer carefully, sometimes repeating them verbatim and then paraphrasing.

The Economist

'Listen well and answer carefully' - that's the best advice I ever received.

The Guardian

When asked why she was sharing these stories, Sen. Ernst considered her answer carefully.

The New Yorker

(It would be interesting, by the way, to hear from Mr. Limbaugh, Ms. Coulter and Mr. Hannity as to whether they've ever availed themselves of the services of illegal immigrants. Answer carefully, now: that ambassadorship could be at stake!) Is the "conservative" position on immigration that the only solution is a wall and midnight roundups by Border Patrol agents at Wal-Mart?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Cannavale answered carefully.

The New York Times - Magazine

Another answers carefully.

The New York Times - Arts

Hall pauses, answering carefully.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Strinati answers carefully.

The New York Times - Arts

Being a lawyer, he answered carefully.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When dealing with sensitive topics or questions, use "answer carefully" to remind yourself or others to think through the implications of your response.

Common error

Avoid blurting out the first thing that comes to mind. Impulsive answers, even if technically correct, can sometimes be misconstrued or lack the necessary nuance. Taking a moment to reflect before responding ensures clarity and consideration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "answer carefully" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which someone should respond. As seen in Ludwig, it advises thoughtfulness and precision in one's reply.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "answer carefully" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that advises thoughtful and precise responses, supported by Ludwig AI. It is most commonly found in news media and wiki contexts. When writing, remember to use this phrase when advising thoughtful consideration of sensitive issues. Alternatives include respond thoughtfully or reply with caution. Its directive nature makes it useful in professional settings where precision is paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

respond thoughtfully

Focuses on the thoughtfulness of the response rather than the precision.

reply with caution

Emphasizes the need for carefulness to avoid potential issues.

consider your answer

Highlights the importance of thinking before speaking.

think before you speak

Direct instruction to pause and consider the implications of your words.

weigh your words

Implies evaluating the impact and accuracy of the words chosen.

choose your words wisely

Stresses the importance of careful selection in language.

give a well-considered response

Suggests a response that has been thoroughly thought out.

answer with deliberation

Highlights the thoughtful and careful nature of the response.

reflect on the question

Focuses on the process of thinking deeply about the inquiry.

be mindful of your response

Emphasizes awareness and attention in formulating a reply.

FAQs

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

You can use "answer carefully" to advise someone to think thoroughly before responding. For example, "Please "answer carefully", as your response will influence our decision."

What does it mean to "answer carefully"?

To ""answer carefully"" means to think deliberately and thoroughly before giving a response, ensuring accuracy and consideration.

Which is a better choice, "answer carefully" or "respond quickly"?

The better choice depends on the situation. "Answer carefully" is suitable when precision and thoughtfulness are paramount, while "respond quickly" is better when speed is essential.

What can I say instead of "answer carefully"?

You can use alternatives like "respond thoughtfully", "reply with caution", or "consider your answer" depending on the specific context.