detailed answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"detailed answer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to request or refer to a thorough and comprehensive response to a question. Example sentence: Please provide a detailed answer to my inquiry.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The DWP gave a detailed answer with Chris Grayling, the employment minister, detailing the types of local payments for which it uses postcode information.

The Guardian

Not necessarily the specific detailed answer".

The New Yorker

He gives a very long, very detailed answer.

The New York Times

"Soon and you will have an instant family," comes the surprisingly detailed answer.

The Guardian - Travel

System analysis provides a detailed answer to the question, What will the new system do?

Britannica

When others wondered about Twitter's value in customer service, Meyer's detailed answer became a Quora standout.

Harvard Business Review

The woman is suing the paper for libel, so a more detailed answer to that question may emerge.

The New Yorker

This is a very large question, actually, and a detailed answer goes back to pre-modern times.

The New Yorker

A detailed answer came quickly from "David," who said he was a straight man married to a lesbian.

The New York Times - Style

You'd hear a more detailed answer from the people at the paper who are working on these issues.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Almost instantly, Scott D. Sullivan, Worldcom's chief financial officer, appeared through the galley door to provide a detailed answer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "detailed answer" when you need specific information, not just a general overview.

Common error

Avoid asking broad, ambiguous questions if you require a "detailed answer". Frame your questions precisely to elicit the specific information you need.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "detailed answer" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective 'detailed' modifies the noun 'answer'. It specifies the quality or characteristic of the answer being provided. Ludwig's examples confirm its use in various contexts requiring thorough responses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

29%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "detailed answer" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a comprehensive response. As highlighted by Ludwig, it finds frequent use across diverse fields like news, science, and general knowledge. When seeking or providing information, specifying the need for a "detailed answer" ensures clarity and thoroughness. While versatile, precision in questioning is vital to elicit a truly thorough reply, avoiding ambiguity that could lead to a less informative response. Whether aiming for professional discourse or casual conversation, mastering the art of asking for and delivering "detailed answers" enhances communication efficacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough reply

Highlights the careful and complete nature of the response.

complete explanation

Highlights the inclusion of all relevant information.

comprehensive response

Emphasizes the completeness and scope of the reply.

in-depth explanation

Stresses the level of detail and analysis provided.

elaborate answer

Indicates a response with a high level of detail and complexity.

exhaustive response

Emphasizes that all possible aspects have been covered.

extensive explanation

Focuses on the thoroughness of the explanation rather than the response itself.

thorough exposition

Implies a careful and detailed presentation of information.

comprehensive account

Suggests a broad and inclusive narrative or description.

full account

Suggests a complete and exhaustive description or narrative.

FAQs

How can I ask for a "detailed answer" without sounding demanding?

You can politely request a "detailed answer" by explaining why you need specific information. For example, "Could you please provide a "detailed answer", as I need to understand all aspects of the process?"

What's the difference between a "detailed answer" and a "brief answer"?

A "brief answer" provides only essential information, whereas a "detailed answer" includes comprehensive information, explanations, and supporting evidence. A "detailed answer" aims for a thorough understanding of the topic.

When is it appropriate to ask for a "detailed answer"?

It's appropriate when you require a comprehensive understanding of a complex issue, when decisions depend on specific information, or when you need to analyze data thoroughly. If you only need basic information, a less "exhaustive response" might suffice.

What are some synonyms for "detailed answer" that I can use in formal writing?

In formal writing, you can use synonyms such as "comprehensive response", "thorough reply", or "in-depth explanation" to maintain a professional tone.