demanded an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demanded an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is insisting on receiving a response or clarification regarding a question or situation. Example: "During the meeting, she demanded an answer about the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

After a long silence, the judge demanded an answer.

The New York Times

While angry Americans demanded an answer, members of Congress debated and dithered.

The New York Times - Books

The Obama administration, which has demanded an answer for months, is understandably frustrated.

The New York Times

He demanded an answer and picked up a stick to hit me.

The Guardian

Cummings then asked Issa to detail what specifically in the transcript would do this, and demanded an answer by yesterday.

The Washington Post

Her questions demanded an answer". Mostly they didn't get one, but that was no less frustrating for those on the receiving end.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

This occasion does not demand an answer.

Cornell University

"Usually I didn't demand an answer".

The Guardian - Music

It will demand an answer from you".

The Guardian

Pushed to the breaking point, Morell demands an answer.

The New York Times

But some questions niggle at you, demanding an answer.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "demanded an answer", ensure the context clearly establishes the power dynamic or urgency that justifies the strong verb choice. This phrase implies that the speaker or subject is in a position to expect or require a response.

Common error

Avoid using "demanded an answer" in casual conversations or situations where a softer approach is more appropriate. Overusing such a strong phrase can come across as overly aggressive or entitled. Consider using "requested an answer" instead in more polite settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demanded an answer" functions as a verb phrase where 'demanded' is the main verb in past tense and 'an answer' is the direct object. It signifies a strong request or insistence on receiving a response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "demanded an answer" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that functions as a verb phrase to express a strong need for a response. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples from reputable sources, indicates its frequent usage in news and media, and academic contexts. The phrase implies urgency and authority and while generally neutral in tone, can be perceived as formal in certain settings. When considering alternative phrasing, options such as "insisted on a response" or "required a clarification" can provide a more nuanced expression depending on the desired level of assertiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insisted on a response

Changes the verb to "insisted" and uses "response" instead of "answer", focusing on the act of requiring a reaction.

required a clarification

Uses "required" to soften the demand and specifies "clarification", indicating a need for making something clearer.

pressed for a reply

Replaces "demanded" with "pressed", suggesting a more persistent urging for a response.

sought an explanation

Shifts the focus to seeking an "explanation", indicating a desire for understanding rather than just any answer.

requested a response urgently

Adds "urgently" to emphasize the need for a prompt reply, making the request more pressing.

called for immediate feedback

Emphasizes immediacy and uses "feedback" to specify the type of response needed.

compelled a statement

Uses "compelled" to suggest force or necessity in obtaining a "statement", which implies a formal response.

expected a prompt answer

Changes the tone to one of expectation rather than demand, focusing on the speed of the answer.

required an immediate response

Highlights the necessity for an immediate reaction, underlining the urgency of the situation.

insisted on knowing

Focuses on the insistence of obtaining knowledge, implying a deeper need than just receiving an answer.

FAQs

How can I use "demanded an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "demanded an answer" when someone insists on receiving a response or clarification. For example, "The journalist "demanded an answer" from the politician regarding the scandal."

What are some alternatives to "demanded an answer"?

You can use alternatives like "insisted on a response", "required a clarification", or "pressed for a reply" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "demanded an answer"?

It is appropriate to use "demanded an answer" when someone is in a position of authority or when the situation requires an immediate and direct response. It's suitable when politeness is secondary to the urgency or importance of the response.

What is the difference between "demanded an answer" and "requested an answer"?

"Demanded an answer" implies a sense of urgency, authority, or insistence, while "requested an answer" is a more polite and less forceful way of asking for a response. The former is used when the speaker expects compliance, whereas the latter is a simple request.