lack of answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where no response or reply has been given to a question or inquiry. Example: "The lack of answer from the committee left many members feeling frustrated and uncertain about the next steps."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human Resources for Health

The Guardian

The New York Times

The New Yorker

Independent

The Economist

Vice

Huffington Post

Wikipedia

BMC Health Services Research

BioMed Research International

Critical Care

BMC Public Health

SEP

Science Magazine

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

However, the high percentage (10.3% of physicians and 14.5% of nurses) of lack of answer to the question concerning the number of days per month suggests that there may be a number of them who do not want to admit their failure to perform home visits.

Human Resources for Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The lack of answers leaves parents feeling powerless.

The Guardian

At the time, one source of distress was the lack of answers.

The Guardian - Opinion

Their lack of answers continues to erode confidence in both the press and the government.

The New York Times

They showed some frustration at a lack of answers, but hospital officials took their names.

The New York Times

The lack of answers, some said, was bound to undermine investors' confidence in the market.

The New York Times

Threat to Themselves A Trail of Suicide, A Lack of Answers Both Melvin Ryan and Lisa Valante had long been besieged by schizophrenia.

The New York Times

He has posts on the witnesses' lack of answers, and the problem with some of the senators' questions.

The New Yorker

As a summary of the opposition's complete lack of answers in the velodrome, it could not be bettered.

The Guardian - Sport

Though a lack of answers has been the chief criticism of Occupy London, we think this is our very power.

The Guardian - Opinion

Not just the lack of answers either, but the sense that no one was looking for them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing complex situations, clearly state whose frustration stems from the "lack of answer" to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid implying that a "lack of answer" equates to a lack of effort in seeking a solution. A "lack of answer" often indicates complexity or insufficient information, not necessarily negligence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the absence of a response or solution to a question or problem. Ludwig examples show the phrase being used to express frustration, uncertainty, or the undermining of confidence due to missing information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lack of answer" is a commonly used expression to describe the absence of a response or solution to a question or problem. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across various contexts. While seemingly straightforward, understanding its implications is crucial for effective communication. As shown by Ludwig, it can convey frustration, highlight deficiencies, and prompt further action. Alternatives like "absence of a response" or "no response" can be used depending on the desired tone. When using the phrase, ensure that you specify whose frustration stems from the "lack of answer" to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no response

Simplifies the phrase for directness.

no reply

Uses "reply" as a synonym for "answer".

absence of a response

Replaces "lack" with "absence" for a more formal tone.

without an answer

Rephrases the lack as a state of being.

failure to respond

Uses a more formal and active construction.

unanswered question

Focuses on the question that has not been answered.

no explanation

Emphasizes the absence of an explanation.

an absence of clarification

Focuses on the lack of clear explanation.

absence of a solution

Shifts focus to the absence of a solution instead of an answer.

unresolved issue

Highlights the lack of resolution to a problem.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "lack of answer" in a sentence?

You can replace "lack of answer" with alternatives like "absence of a response", "no response", or "unanswered question" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "lack of answer" or "absence of an answer"?

Both "lack of answer" and "absence of an answer" are grammatically correct. "Lack of answer" is slightly more common, while "absence of an answer" may sound more formal. Choose the phrase that best fits the tone and style of your writing.

What does "lack of answer" imply in a formal context?

In a formal context, "lack of answer" often suggests that critical information is missing or that a question has not been adequately addressed. This can lead to frustration or uncertainty among stakeholders.

How does the "lack of answer" affect decision-making?

A "lack of answer" can significantly hinder decision-making processes. Without sufficient information, it becomes difficult to assess risks, evaluate options, and make informed choices. This often leads to delays or suboptimal outcomes.