in answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"in answer" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when responding to a question or addressing a topic directly. Example: "In answer to your question, I believe we should proceed with the plan." Alternative expressions include "in response" and "as a reply."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In answer to his….

The New Yorker

In answer, Napoleon snapped at a bug.

The New Yorker

In answer to some questions.

The Guardian - Tech

In answer now, Bruno just shrugged.

The New Yorker

"Pepper spray," he whispers in answer to my raised eyebrows.

The New York Times

"Why Tito?" Zubizarreta asked in answer to reporters' questions.

The New York Times - Sports

"Yes" was all he said, in answer to both questions.

The New Yorker

Behind that, Queta cackled in answer to a question.

The New Yorker

Author compiled the list in answer to Pres.

The New Yorker

I asked questions and Mo lied in answer.

The New Yorker

In answer, I gave her a little toot.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When starting a sentence with this phrase, such as "In answer to your query," always follow the introductory clause with a comma.

Common error

Avoid using 'in answer of' as it is unidiomatic in English. While you might say 'in search of', the phrase "in answer" almost exclusively takes the preposition 'to' when followed by an object.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in answer" functions as an adverbial prepositional phrase. In the examples provided by Ludwig, it often modifies a verb of communication or action (e.g., "he said", "she nodded", "he whispered"). Ludwig AI indicates that it is a standard and correct way to link an action to the question that prompted it.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in answer" is a robust and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a response or reaction. Ludwig AI shows a high density of usage in top-tier journalism and scientific literature, proving its reliability across different writing styles. Whether you are describing a character's silent nod in a story or addressing a formal inquiry in a business letter, this phrase provides a clear and elegant transition. Remember to use the preposition 'to' when following it with an object and use a comma when it serves as an introductory element. While "in response" is a common synonym, "in answer" remains a classic choice for precise English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in response to

Uses a more common noun 'response' and frequently requires a direct object.

as a reply

Emphasizes the act of replying rather than the content of the answer.

by way of answer

Adds a slightly more literary or formal tone to the introduction of a response.

in reaction to

Suggests an emotional or automatic response rather than a cognitive answer.

answering the question

Uses a participle form which makes the action more immediate and verbal.

to address this

Focuses on the resolution of a topic or problem rather than just providing an answer.

in return

Implying an exchange or a reciprocal action that serves as the answer.

as a solution

Focuses on the problem-solving nature of the answer provided.

reacting to

A more informal or direct verbal construction.

in rebuttal

Specific to argumentative or legal contexts where the answer contradicts a point.

FAQs

How do I use "in answer" in a sentence?

You can use it to preface a response. For example, "He nodded "in answer" to her question" or ""In answer" to your email, we have reviewed the documents".

What is the difference between "in answer" and "in response"?

Both are very similar, but "in response" is more versatile and common in business contexts, while "in answer" is often found in literary or narrative descriptions.

Can I start a sentence with "In answer"?

Yes, it is a common way to begin a sentence when replying to a previous point, such as ""In answer" to the board's concerns, we have implemented new safety protocols".

Is "in answer" formal enough for academic writing?

Yes, but it is often strengthened by adding more detail, such as "in answer to the question" or "to address the inquiry".