formulate a response

USAGE SUMMARY

"formulate a response" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to carefully think about and create a reply or answer to something. Example: The CEO asked me to formulate a response to the competitor's new product launch.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Torino struggled to formulate a response.

The Guardian - Sport

Be prepared As soon as the crisis starts to break, formulate a response strategy.

The Guardian

That is why we will soon be establishing a broad-based group to formulate a response.

The Guardian

Ms. Weisgerber told the judge that she needed more time to formulate a response.

The New York Times

Asked for comment, an official at Egypt's interior ministry said he needed time to formulate a response.

The Guardian

But KLM's board was meeting tonight to formulate a response to the Air France proposal, a Dutch radio broadcast said.

The New York Times

The government has yet to formulate a response to the report but it is understood it is very close.

The Guardian

Rebel militia then converged on Boston from all over New England, while London attempted to formulate a response.

Britannica

Parents often marvel at how quickly a student can formulate a response to that question after a visit.

The New York Times

State prosecutors who had filed a parallel antitrust suit declined for now to endorse the deal and have until next week to formulate a response.

The New York Times

He told the senators that one problem for Cyber Command would be to formulate a response based on nothing more than a rough judgment about a hacker's intent.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "formulate a response", consider the tone and context of the situation. A formal setting may require a carefully considered and articulate response, while an informal setting allows for a more immediate and spontaneous reaction.

Common error

Avoid overanalyzing the situation to the point of paralysis. While careful consideration is important, excessive deliberation can lead to missed opportunities or a response that feels inauthentic. Strive for a balance between thoughtfulness and timeliness when you "formulate a response".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulate a response" primarily functions as a verb phrase acting as the predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of carefully planning and creating a reply or answer. As Ludwig AI explains, it's a common and correct expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "formulate a response" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the process of carefully crafting an answer or reaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and correct. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, as well as in formal and business settings. The phrase implies a thoughtful and planned approach to replying, rather than an immediate or instinctive reaction. When using "formulate a response", consider the level of formality required and the specific context to ensure the most appropriate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prepare an answer

Highlights the preparatory aspect of creating a response.

craft a reply

Emphasizes careful and skillful construction of the answer.

develop a reaction

Focuses on the emotional or instinctive aspect of the response.

frame a statement

Highlights the act of carefully wording a formal response.

arrange an explanation

Focuses on providing clarity and understanding in the response.

devise a rejoinder

Implies a clever or witty response, often in a debate.

shape a retort

Conveys a sharp, incisive response.

construct a defense

Suggests creating a response aimed at protecting or justifying a position.

orchestrate a counter-argument

Implies a carefully planned and executed response in an argumentative context.

put together a solution

Suggests a response aimed at resolving a problem.

FAQs

How can I use "formulate a response" in a sentence?

You can use "formulate a response" when you want to express the act of carefully creating a reply or answer. For example: "The committee met to formulate a response to the new regulations."

What can I say instead of "formulate a response"?

You can use alternatives like "develop a reaction", "craft a reply", or "prepare an answer" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to "formulate a response" immediately or to take time to consider?

The best approach depends on the situation. Complex or sensitive issues often require time to "formulate a response" thoughtfully. However, in some cases, a prompt response may be necessary to address urgent concerns.

What is the difference between "formulate a response" and "react"?

"Formulate a response" implies a deliberate and thoughtful process of creating an answer, while "react" suggests a more immediate and instinctive action without much planning. Therefore, "formulate a response" often involves more consideration than simply reacting.