answering the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "answering the question" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used when discussing or describing a specific part of a sentence that directly responds to a question posed. Example: In the sentence "I don't know where she went," the phrase "where she went" is the part of the sentence answering the question "Where did she go?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He was answering the question very specifically.

The New York Times

You're not answering the question.

The New York Times - Magazine

You are not answering the question.

Cornell University

The prime minister is answering the question.

The Guardian

That's not really answering the question, Jeremy.

The Guardian

Another third abstained from answering the question.

The New York Times

Yet, answering the question "what is cardiotoxicity?" remains problematic.

Progress in Pediatric Cardiology

Answering the question of why is a little more difficult.

The New York Times

Without answering the question, she gave her own view.

The New Yorker

And then compose an email answering the question.

The Economist

There are two ways of answering the question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using this phrase; it is appropriate for most situations, but more formal contexts may benefit from alternatives like "addressing the query".

Common error

Avoid using "answering the question" when the subsequent response is indirect, evasive, or fails to provide a clear and direct answer to the question. Ensure your response genuinely addresses the core of the question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "answering the question" functions as a gerund phrase, acting as a noun. It describes the act of providing a response to a specific question. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and appears in various contexts. For example, "He was answering the question very specifically."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "answering the question" is a grammatically sound and very common gerund phrase used to describe the act of providing a response to a question. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and it appears frequently in diverse contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure that the response is direct and relevant to the question posed. While versatile, consider synonyms like "addressing the query" or "responding to the inquiry" for more formal situations. Avoid using it when the response is indirect or fails to address the question's core. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively incorporate "answering the question" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

addressing the query

Replaces "question" with "query", which is slightly more formal.

responding to the inquiry

Uses "responding" instead of "answering" and "inquiry" instead of "question", indicating a more formal context.

providing a response

Emphasizes the act of giving a response, rather than directly answering the question.

giving an explanation

Highlights the act of explaining something in response to a question.

dealing with the question

Similar to tackling, but slightly less proactive.

resolving the matter

Shifts the focus from answering to solving or concluding the question.

furnishing an answer

A more formal way of saying providing an answer.

tackling the issue

Focuses on addressing or dealing with a problem or question.

expounding on the issue

Suggests a detailed and thorough explanation of the question.

elucidating the point

Focuses on clarifying or explaining a specific point or question.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "answering the question" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, consider using alternatives like "addressing the query", "responding to the inquiry", or "resolving the issue".

Is it better to say "answering the question" or "answer the question"?

"Answering the question" functions as a gerund phrase, often used to describe an action. "Answer the question" is an imperative, a direct command. The best choice depends on the sentence's structure and intended meaning.

What's the difference between "addressing the question" and "answering the question"?

"Addressing the question" implies dealing with or discussing the question, while "answering the question" specifically means providing a direct answer or solution.

How to avoid sounding repetitive when using "answering the question" frequently?

Vary your language by using synonyms such as "responding to the question", "tackling the issue", or "providing a response". This helps maintain reader engagement and avoids monotony.