comprehensive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comprehensive answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when speaking about a complete, thorough response or solution to a problem. For example, "My professor was looking for a comprehensive answer to the question, so I wrote a detailed essay explaining my point of view."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He knows we need a comprehensive answer.

The New York Times

Perhaps there can be no comprehensive answer.

Harvard University

I am awarded one last, beautifully comprehensive answer.

Independent

Robert Gibbs, Obama's communications director, defended his candidate for offering a comprehensive answer to the question.

The Washington Post

My trip to India this week provided one rather interesting perspective (not a comprehensive answer, I hasten to add).

The Guardian - Travel

Unfortunately, the question cannot be answered as succinctly as it can be posed, because I have no single comprehensive answer.

Nature

In Dunsmuir and in Mavi, the Supreme Court did not provide a comprehensive answer to that question.

Harvard University

The sisters believe they now have a comprehensive answer to the riddle, because their CD also features music by Saint-Saëns and Debussy, so listeners can judge.

The Guardian - Books

For a more comprehensive answer, see "How can I get an HUP work in an alternative format for use by those with print-related disabilities?" in our FAQ.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

A new working paper by Mr. Stewart of the Labor Bureau provides the most comprehensive answers to date.

The New York Times

The South African Native Affairs Commission (SANAC) was appointed to provide comprehensive answers to "the native question".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "comprehensive answer" when you need to emphasize that the response covers all relevant aspects of a question or problem. It's particularly useful in academic, scientific, or professional contexts where thoroughness is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "comprehensive answer" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "full explanation" or "complete response" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comprehensive answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective 'comprehensive' modifies the noun 'answer'. It describes the nature of the answer provided. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

28%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "comprehensive answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression denoting a thorough and complete response. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly where detail and completeness are valued. While versatile, remember that its formal tone may not always be appropriate in casual settings. When seeking alternatives, consider "thorough response" or "complete solution", depending on the specific emphasis you wish to convey. Remember to tailor your language to the context to achieve the desired impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough response

Focuses on the completeness and attention to detail in the reply.

complete solution

Emphasizes the resolution aspect, suggesting all aspects are covered.

exhaustive explanation

Highlights the depth and detail provided in clarifying something.

in-depth analysis

Stresses the detailed and thorough examination of a topic.

detailed account

Focuses on providing a full and elaborate narrative.

full explanation

Highlights the completeness of the information provided.

detailed response

Focuses on the level of detail included in the answer.

thorough analysis

Emphasizes the careful and complete nature of the examination.

definitive solution

Stresses the conclusive and authoritative nature of the resolution.

all-inclusive answer

Highlights that every aspect is included in the reply.

FAQs

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

You can use "comprehensive answer" when you want to indicate that a response is complete and thorough. For example, "The professor provided a "comprehensive answer" to the student's question, covering all relevant aspects of the topic."

What's a less formal alternative to "comprehensive answer"?

If you're looking for a less formal alternative to "comprehensive answer", consider using phrases like "full explanation", "complete response", or "detailed answer".

When is it appropriate to use "comprehensive answer"?

It's appropriate to use "comprehensive answer" in formal settings such as academic papers, professional reports, or when addressing complex questions that require a thorough response. In casual conversation, simpler alternatives may be more suitable.

What is the difference between ""comprehensive answer"" and "satisfactory answer"?

A "satisfactory answer" meets the basic requirements or expectations, while a ""comprehensive answer"" goes above and beyond to provide a thorough and complete response, covering all relevant aspects in detail.