incomplete answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "incomplete answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that does not fully address a question or topic. Example: "The response provided was an incomplete answer, leaving several key points unaddressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

The Op-Quiz on Sunday had an incomplete answer to Question 13.

The New York Times

Nonetheless, in each case, a good (albeit provisional and openly incomplete) answer is developed.

The Economist

Correction: August 31, 2004, Tuesday The Op-Quiz on Sunday had an incomplete answer to Question 13.

The New York Times

That major concerts of four-hand music, like the Schubert program Mr. Barenboim and Mr. Lupu are playing tomorrow, are themselves rare is an incomplete answer.

The New York Times - Arts

Not that it seems to have been hushed-up at all, but it would appear those marking the papers were given incomplete answer sheets to work from.

The Guardian

On his own blog at TheAtlantic.com, Matthew Yglesias, an associate editor at The Atlantic, offered what he said was "obviously an incomplete answer," in the form of a question of his own.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

He apologises for his incomplete answers, as if every quote should spin a headline.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

When Prudential sought information about the investments, the suit alleges, its representatives received evasive and incomplete answers.

The New York Times

Yet Sessions, who has given conflicting and incomplete answers about his contacts with the Russians, had good reason to recuse himself.

The New Yorker

Mr. Barrasso said Ms. Jewell had given incomplete answers to verbal and written questions and was not clearly qualified to head the sprawling Interior Department.

The New York Times

Neither company had cooperated fully with the investigation, and Huawei had "provided evasive, non-responsive, or incomplete answers to questions at the heart of the security issues posed".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Verify that you clearly articulate what specific aspects of the question or topic remain unaddressed when describing an answer as incomplete.

Common error

Avoid simply stating an answer is "incomplete" without explaining why. Provide context by indicating which elements are missing or underdeveloped.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "incomplete answer" functions as a descriptive term, primarily used to characterize a response that doesn't fully satisfy the requirements of a question or request. It's frequently used in educational, professional, and everyday contexts to denote a lack of comprehensiveness. Ludwig's AI confirms this usage pattern.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "incomplete answer" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to describe a response that doesn't fully address a question or topic. Ludwig AI highlights its versatility across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general discussions. When employing this phrase, provide specific details about what's lacking to offer constructive feedback. Remember, while often appropriate, it's essential to use it thoughtfully, indicating where further clarity or information is needed. Consider alternatives such as "partial response" or "insufficient response" to fine-tune your message. Always aim for clear and constructive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

partial response

Emphasizes the lack of completeness in the response.

insufficient response

Highlights the inadequacy of the answer.

inadequate answer

Focuses on the answer not meeting the required standard.

sketchy response

Indicates a lack of detail and thoroughness.

limited answer

Stresses the restricted scope of the answer.

superficial response

Suggests a lack of depth and careful consideration.

perfunctory reply

Implies a lack of genuine effort or interest in providing a full answer.

deficient answer

Highlights the lack of essential components in the answer.

truncated response

Focuses on the abrupt ending and missing information.

abbreviated reply

Suggests a shortened answer, lacking the necessary details.

FAQs

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

You can use "incomplete answer" to describe a response that doesn't fully address a question or topic. For example, "The student's response was an incomplete answer because it lacked specific examples."

What can I say instead of "incomplete answer"?

You can use alternatives like "partial response", "insufficient response", or "inadequate answer" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to give an "incomplete answer" or no answer at all?

In many situations, providing an "incomplete answer" is preferable to silence, as it demonstrates engagement and may offer some value. However, acknowledge the limitations and indicate a willingness to provide further information.

What are the possible reasons for an "incomplete answer"?

An "incomplete answer" can arise due to time constraints, lack of information, or a limited understanding of the question or topic. Recognizing the cause can help in addressing the gaps more effectively.