firm answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"firm answer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a response that is not easily changed or swayed. For example, "When I asked for a raise, my boss gave me a firm answer and said there was no possibility of an increase in salary."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

His firm answer was no.

The New York Times

is his firm answer.

The Guardian

The firm answer from Dr Trichopoulos is "No".

The Economist

The scene after Israelis left Ramallah gave no firm answer.

The New York Times

This is an eternal pop music question with no firm answer.

The New York Times - Arts

Today, the increasingly accurate lasers have put scientists closer to a firm answer on the core topic.

The New York Times - Science

"There's no firm answer, but pretty much everyone would agree that some days are nicer than other days".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Unfortunately, there are no firm answers.

The New York Times

But there were no firm answers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She had no firm answers, he said.

The New York Times

Texts that raised questions without firm answers were suspect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "firm answer", ensure the context supports the strength of the response. Overusing it can make you sound inflexible or dismissive.

Common error

Avoid using "firm answer" in contexts that require empathy or flexibility. It can come across as insensitive or unwilling to compromise, especially when dealing with personal matters or delicate negotiations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm answer" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'firm' modifies 'answer'. It indicates a definitive, unwavering, and resolute response to a question or situation. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm answer" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that signifies a decisive and unwavering response. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability. It's most frequently encountered in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, where clarity and certainty are paramount. While generally neutral in register, its use should be carefully considered in sensitive situations to avoid appearing inflexible. Remember to use alternatives like "unequivocal response" or "definite reply" to tailor your language to the specific context. The phrase underscores the importance of clear and resolute communication in various aspects of life.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unequivocal response

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the answer.

definite reply

Highlights the decisiveness and finality of the response.

categorical denial

Specifically indicates a strong and absolute rejection.

resolute affirmation

Suggests a strong and unwavering confirmation.

clear-cut response

Focuses on the simplicity and directness of the answer.

unambiguous statement

Stresses the lack of potential for misinterpretation.

decisive answer

Implies that the answer leaves no room for doubt or further discussion.

adamant refusal

Suggests a stubborn and unyielding rejection.

explicit confirmation

Highlights the clarity and directness of the confirmation.

definitive answer

Implies that the answer is the final and authoritative word on the matter.

FAQs

How to use "firm answer" in a sentence?

You can use "firm answer" to describe a decisive and unwavering response, such as "The CEO gave a "firm answer" rejecting the merger proposal."

What can I say instead of "firm answer"?

You can use alternatives like "unequivocal response", "definite reply", or "categorical denial" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "firm answer" or "unclear answer"?

While both are grammatically correct, they convey opposite meanings. "Firm answer" suggests certainty and decisiveness, whereas "unclear answer" implies ambiguity and lack of clarity.

What's the difference between "firm answer" and "strong opinion"?

"Firm answer" refers to a direct response to a question or request, while "strong opinion" describes a deeply held belief or viewpoint. One is a response, the other is a conviction.