answer used

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "answer used" is not correct in standard written English.
It lacks clarity and context, making it difficult to determine its intended meaning. Example: "The answer used in the discussion was not satisfactory."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The answer used to be: Anyone who can read.

The New Yorker

The answer used to be the Liberty Science Center.

The New York Times

The answer used to be one imposing word: president.

The New York Times - Magazine

At least that's the answer used by Line and others.

The Guardian - Tech

The answer used to come from defense firms, academia, megacorporations.

The New York Times

It was a surprise to see that the correct answer used the other rendering, MONOLOG.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Justify your answer using Gardner's theory of Multiple Intelligences.

The New York Times

"So what's the answer?" "Use the racket to set a goal," he said.

The New York Times

A new study has come up with a far different answer, using a far different technique.

The New York Times - Science

It's a difficult question to answer, using the latest statistics.

Independent

The circuit then guessed which scientist was the closest match, showing its answer using different-coloured fluorescent signals.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to an answer that has been employed, consider using clearer and more specific alternatives such as "response given" or "solution applied" to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "answer used" in contexts where a more specific term would provide greater clarity. For instance, instead of "the answer used in the experiment", specify "the method employed in the experiment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "answer used" functions as a verb phrase, often part of a larger sentence structure. It typically identifies the response that has been implemented or employed in a given context. Ludwig indicates that the phrase can lack clarity, so be careful when using it.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "answer used" appears across diverse sources, including news, science, and wikis, it's grammatically questionable and often lacks clarity. As confirmed by Ludwig, more precise and descriptive alternatives, such as "response given", "solution applied", or "method employed", generally provide greater clarity. For best practice, writers should favor specific language that directly conveys the intended meaning, enhancing overall understanding and credibility. Always consider the context and intended audience when choosing between "answer used" and its alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

response given

Emphasizes the act of providing a response, focusing on the action of answering.

solution applied

Highlights the application of a solution, shifting the focus to problem-solving.

method employed

Indicates the use of a particular method, suitable when referring to a specific process.

strategy utilized

Focuses on the implementation of a strategy, emphasizing a planned approach.

approach adopted

Highlights the selection and use of a particular approach or method.

technique implemented

Specifically refers to the implementation of a technical procedure.

formula used

Relevant when referring to the application of a mathematical or scientific formula.

principle applied

Suitable when referring to the application of a fundamental principle.

resource employed

Highlights the use of a resource to produce an answer.

instrument used

Highlights the use of a measurement instrument to produce an answer.

FAQs

What's a better way to say "answer used"?

Consider using phrases like "response given", "solution applied", or "method employed" for enhanced clarity and precision.

How can I improve clarity when describing an answer?

Be specific about the type of answer and its context. For example, use "formula applied" instead of "answer used" when discussing mathematical solutions.

When is it appropriate to use "answer used"?

While sometimes encountered, it's generally advisable to opt for clearer alternatives. If you mean 'the answer that was given', then use "answer given" instead.

What's wrong with saying "answer used"?

According to Ludwig, the phrase is not correct and it lacks clarity in standard written English. Using a more precise phrase like "method applied", "strategy utilized" or "approach adopted" makes your writing more understandable.