formulating an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "formulating an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the process of creating or developing a response to a question or problem. Example: "After careful consideration, I spent some time formulating an answer to the complex question posed during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

When it receives new questions, it compares them with the corpus of those it already knows, studiously scoring their similarity before formulating an answer.

The New Yorker

I paused, formulating an answer in my head, knowing that she would be sticking a needle in my arm.

Huffington Post

But the declassified documents tell a somewhat different story, with multiple people from different departments becoming involved in formulating an answer.

Vice

With her mind as malleable as it is, she can indeed be taught to ignore her initial responses to seek out more information before formulating an answer, and be coached on how to pick the one and only "right" answer.

HuffPost

Pamela asks again, and Stuart continues to have severe difficulty formulating an answer (lines 19 20).

Aphasiology

Under each question, researchers summarized how the participant understood the question, recall strategies used, judgments made in formulating an answer, any problems, and the answer itself.

Archives of Sexual Behavior

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It took me a moment to formulate an answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

He said he had asked himself the same question and for a time even struggled to formulate an answer.

The New York Times - Magazine

O'Flynn formulates an answer to Frank's mother's question, tracing the strands of human connection that persist amid the concrete underpasses and flickering screens.

The New Yorker

The question is, "What should I aspire to take away from my Princeton education?" To help you formulate an answer, let me tell you what not to expect.

Princeton University

But as one often does after flubbing a pregnant moment, I kept going over the scene in my mind, trying to formulate an answer worthy of the question and the questioner, something that convinced him I wasn't a fool".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Before "formulating an answer", pause to gather your thoughts. A well-considered response demonstrates thoughtfulness and can lead to more meaningful conversations.

Common error

Avoid immediately blurting out the first thing that comes to mind when "formulating an answer". Instead, take a moment to carefully consider all aspects of the question before speaking. This prevents misunderstandings and promotes more thoughtful dialogue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "formulating an answer" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as a noun. It describes the process of developing a response. As Ludwig AI states, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

50%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "formulating an answer" is a grammatically correct gerund phrase that describes the thoughtful process of developing a response. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not overly common, it appears more frequently in formal contexts like news articles, scientific papers, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, remember to emphasize the deliberate and preparatory nature of crafting a response. Consider alternatives like "crafting a response" or "developing an answer" for slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

developing an answer

Focuses on the process of gradual improvement and refinement of a response.

coming up with an answer

Focuses on the act of generating or discovering a solution or response.

crafting a response

Emphasizes the skill and care involved in creating a well-thought-out reply.

preparing a response

Stresses the anticipatory aspect of getting ready to answer.

devising a reply

Highlights the inventiveness and strategic thinking in creating a response.

constructing a response

Emphasizes the building or assembling of a logical and coherent answer.

composing a reply

Implies a careful and structured approach to creating a written response.

framing an answer

Highlights the act of choosing the right words and perspective to present a response.

thinking up an answer

Suggests a more spontaneous or creative approach to finding a response.

conceiving a response

Suggests a more abstract or intellectual process of developing a response.

FAQs

How can I improve my skill in "formulating an answer"?

Practice active listening and critical thinking. Before responding, fully understand the question and consider different perspectives. This allows you to craft more thoughtful and relevant answers.

What's the difference between "formulating an answer" and simply giving an answer?

"Formulating an answer" implies a process of careful thought and construction, whereas simply giving an answer may be more spontaneous or less considered. Formulating involves deliberately shaping your response.

When is it appropriate to take time before "formulating an answer"?

It's often appropriate to take time when facing complex or sensitive questions, especially in professional or formal settings. Rushing can lead to miscommunication or unintended consequences.

What are some alternative phrases for "formulating an answer"?

You can use alternatives like "crafting a response", "devising a reply", or "developing an answer" depending on the context.