decisive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "decisive answer" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a response as being firm and authoritative. For example, "The lawyer gave a decisive answer in court, which put an end to the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

We don't have a decisive answer yet".

The Guardian - Tech

The Carnegie Hall concerts did not provide a decisive answer, but there was reason for hope.

The New York Times - Arts

My middle son's reply to his brother — "Now I'm about to punch you" — provided a decisive answer: probably not.

The New York Times

"The question of English votes for English laws, the so-called West Lothian question, deserves a decisive answer," he said.

The Economist

The question of English votes for English laws, the so-called West Lothian question, deserves a decisive answer".

The Guardian

The Devils gave a decisive answer tonight to those who thought this might be the logical spot for a letdown.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

He told reporters: "This weekend, I will insist on the need for decisive answers on all the five points of this roadmap, of this comprehensive package … It is a question of credibility for Europe that it can turn up at the G20 in Cannes with the main agreements in place".

The Guardian - Business

As we talk, Haddad continues working, stamping forms and giving brief, decisive answers to a range of people who looked in from the door.

Vice

Certainly, further experimental studies involving RT-PCR or microarrays would be necessary to validate further our hypothesis and provide more decisive answers as to whether noncoding RNAs indeed represent a substantial portion of the bank vole normalized heart cDNA library.

BMC Genomics

If we go on to ask what grounds philosophers have had for deeming a given kind of possibility relevant or even decisive, a prevalent answer is that such decisions should be constrained by our interest in aesthetic or artistic appreciation.

SEP

We can bet that it will be the spread and distribution across Europe of inequalities and the effects of recession (and in particular unemployment) that will be decisive factors in answering these questions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "decisive answer," ensure the context supports the assertion that the answer truly resolves the issue or question. If there's still ambiguity or room for interpretation, consider using a less forceful phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "decisive answer" when the response only provides a partial solution or a tentative conclusion. Overstating the finality of the answer can undermine your credibility if further questions remain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "decisive answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "decisive" modifies "answer". It describes the quality of the answer, indicating that it is definitive and conclusive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and can be used to describe a response as being firm and authoritative.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Sports

4%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "decisive answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that effectively communicates a response is clear, authoritative, and leaves no room for doubt. As Ludwig AI indicates, it’s suitable for various contexts, including news, media, and professional environments. While it is most prevalent in News & Media, its application spans across Science and Formal & Business settings as well. Remember to use this phrase when you truly want to signal that an answer settles a matter completely. Be mindful not to overstate the "decisiveness" if the answer provides only a partial or tentative conclusion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

definitive response

Focuses on the finality and authoritativeness of the response.

clear resolution

Highlights the clarity and conclusiveness of the answer in resolving a matter.

unequivocal reply

Emphasizes the unambiguous nature of the answer.

categorical response

Stresses the absence of conditions or exceptions in the answer.

firm conclusion

Implies that the answer is a strong and well-supported judgment.

certain determination

Highlights the conviction and confidence behind the answer.

definitive conclusion

Focuses on finality and removes all doubt.

absolute confirmation

Emphasizes the complete and undeniable validation provided by the answer.

irrefutable solution

Stresses that solution is impossible to argue against.

unquestionable result

Highlights the fact that result does not leave room for doubt.

FAQs

What does "decisive answer" mean?

A "decisive answer" is a response that is clear, firm, and leaves no room for doubt or further questioning. It typically resolves an issue or provides a definitive resolution.

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

You can use "decisive answer" to describe a response that settles a debate, resolves a problem, or provides a clear solution. For example, "The judge's ruling provided a "decisive answer" to the legal dispute."

What are some alternatives to "decisive answer"?

Alternatives include "definitive response", "clear resolution", or "unequivocal reply". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "decisive answer" formal or informal?

"Decisive answer" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts. While it conveys authority, it is not overly technical or jargonistic, making it appropriate for a wide range of situations.