inadequate answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "inadequate answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a response that does not sufficiently address a question or issue. Example: "The feedback I received was an inadequate answer to my concerns about the project's direction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

America might appear to represent an inadequate answer.

The Guardian - Sport

Martha: "Why was Napoleon here?" Guide: "Why are you here?" Martha considers this an inadequate answer.

The New Yorker

I had not so much a crisis of confidence, but a feeling that "if you're mindful, you won't get hurt" was very possibly an inadequate answer.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is also the reason that many conservative Republicans refused to vote for the agreement, calling it a grossly inadequate answer to a pressing problem.

The New York Times

When the public services duly failed to improve, Mr Blair's inadequate answer was to give them targets, loads of money and new ministers.

The Economist

The origin of that name is somewhere down the rabbit hole; the inadequate answer is that it may have been a condensation of Milligan.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Until we reframe the question, we're going to keep getting the same inadequate answers.

The New York Times

But several questioners expressed skepticism about those figures and chastised Ms. Bresch for what they said were inadequate answers about financial details of the company.

The New York Times

"Some one stold there berries," read one of the more inadequate answers — a testament to the learning that must still take place.

The New York Times

He said he received inadequate answers from Yankee ticket sales people about why two other fans, whom he said had lesser seniority, got a 41-game plan, or if seniority really mattered at all.

The New York Times - Sports

But you sometimes feel, as you watch her listen to the hopelessly inadequate answers of every new competitor – sorry, I mean witness – that it can only be a matter of time before she does.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "inadequate answer", ensure the context clearly defines what standard or expectation the answer fails to meet. Be specific about why the answer is insufficient to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "inadequate answer" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise terms like "insufficient response" or "incomplete explanation" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "inadequate answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "inadequate" modifies the noun "answer". It describes a response that fails to meet the required standard or expectation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "inadequate answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a response that is insufficient or unsatisfactory. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous real-world examples. While it's versatile, consider more precise alternatives like "insufficient response" or "incomplete explanation" in formal contexts. The phrase appears most commonly in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what makes the answer inadequate to effectively convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insufficient response

Focuses on the lack of completeness or satisfaction provided by the answer.

unsatisfactory reply

Emphasizes the disappointment or unmet expectations associated with the answer.

poor explanation

Highlights the lack of clarity or depth in the answer.

weak response

Suggests that the answer lacks strength or persuasiveness.

flimsy justification

Implies that the answer is not well-supported or convincing.

deficient account

Indicates that the answer is incomplete or lacking essential details.

unconvincing argument

Focuses on the answer's failure to persuade or convince.

lame excuse

Suggests the answer is not credible and possibly insincere.

unacceptable response

Implies that the answer is not satisfactory and cannot be approved.

incomplete information

Highlights the lack of comprehensive details in the response.

FAQs

How can I use "inadequate answer" in a sentence?

You can use "inadequate answer" to describe a response that does not sufficiently address a question or issue. For example, "The explanation provided was an "inadequate answer" to the complex problem."

What can I say instead of "inadequate answer"?

You can use alternatives like "insufficient response", "unsatisfactory reply", or "poor explanation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "inadequate answer"?

The phrase "inadequate answer" is suitable in various contexts, especially when you want to express that a response falls short of expectations or doesn't provide enough information or clarity.

Is "inadequate answer" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "inadequate answer" might be perceived as less formal. In academic writing, consider using more precise terms such as "insufficient response" or "incomplete explanation" for enhanced clarity and professionalism.