Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.
Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
direct answer
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"direct answer" is both correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a response given to a question or request that is straightforward and to the point. For example, "The CEO's direct answer to the question was, 'No.'".
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Academia
Alternative expressions(19)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
No direct answer.
News & Media
It's called a "direct answer".
News & Media
You cannot give the direct answer.
News & Media
He got no direct answer, he recalled.
News & Media
[laughs] Trying to avoid a direct answer.
News & Media
Pence did not give a direct answer.
News & Media
"Frankly, I don't have a direct answer," he said.
News & Media
And he couldn't give me a direct answer.
News & Media
He surprised us by giving us a direct answer.
News & Media
Republicans have a direct answer for this problem.
News & Media
Mr. Neiman did not give a direct answer.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "direct answer" when you want to emphasize the clarity and lack of ambiguity in a response. For example, use it when contrasting with evasive or unclear answers.
Common error
While "direct answer" is widely understood, avoid overuse in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more sophisticated alternatives like "explicit response" or "definitive reply" for a more polished tone.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "direct answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as the object of a verb (e.g., "give a direct answer") or follows a preposition (e.g., "in direct answer to"). Ludwig's examples confirm this usage across various contexts.
Frequent in
News & Media
56%
Academia
19%
Formal & Business
8%
Less common in
Science
17%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "direct answer" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a straightforward and unambiguous response. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news media and academic writing. While versatile, consider substituting it with synonyms like "straight answer" or "forthright reply" in formal settings to enhance stylistic variation. Remember to use "direct answer" when you want to emphasize clarity and lack of evasion in a response, and avoid overuse in overly formal writing.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
straight answer
This alternative is a synonym that emphasizes clarity and lack of evasion.
unambiguous response
This emphasizes the clarity and lack of potential for misinterpretation in the answer.
forthright reply
This suggests honesty and directness in the response.
clear response
This focuses on the ease of understanding the answer.
explicit answer
This highlights the detailed and specific nature of the answer.
definitive response
This suggests a conclusive and authoritative answer.
unequivocal answer
Similar to unambiguous, this stresses the absence of doubt or reservation.
to-the-point answer
This implies conciseness and relevance in the response.
plain answer
This suggests simplicity and lack of complexity.
candid reply
This alternative highlights the honesty and frankness of the response.
FAQs
How can I use "direct answer" in a sentence?
You can use "direct answer" to describe a response that is straightforward and unambiguous. For example: "She gave a "direct answer" to the question about her qualifications".
What can I say instead of "direct answer"?
You can use alternatives like "straight answer", "unambiguous response", or "forthright reply" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "direct answer" or "directly answer"?
"Direct answer" is a noun phrase, while "directly answer" uses "directly" as an adverb modifying the verb "answer". For example: "She gave a "direct answer"" versus "She "directly answered" the question".
What's the difference between "direct answer" and "honest answer"?
A ""direct answer"" is straightforward and to the point, while an "honest answer" is truthful. An answer can be direct without being honest, and vice versa.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested