more detailed answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "more detailed answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting or providing an answer that includes additional information or clarification. Example: "Could you please provide a more detailed answer to my question about the project timeline?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The woman is suing the paper for libel, so a more detailed answer to that question may emerge.

The New Yorker

You'd hear a more detailed answer from the people at the paper who are working on these issues.

The New York Times

Well, the report provides a more detailed answer to that question but the extract from it below gives you a brief idea: Since questions about drugs were introduced in 1998, the questionnaire has asked about Semeron, a fictional drug.

The Guardian

On Sunday, Mr. Geithner gave a slightly more detailed answer, saying it would be difficult to try to push both the spending cuts and the debt ceiling through Congress simultaneously.

The New York Times

Perhaps it was his demeanour, perhaps it was because he isn't Labour, but the FM appeared to give a more detailed answer - without giving any ground.

BBC

Why? Stupidity would be the simple answer, the more detailed answer is "Shortsighted non scalable competitive thinking taken from the limited distribution physical world markets applied to the online markets".

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"It's a secret," he replied, and that was one of his more detailed answers.

Independent

Mr. Thomson could have asked questions like these, and offered more detailed answers, without demeaning his subject.

The New York Times - Books

They said they wanted more detailed answers to questions about the administration's response to the Libyan attack.

The New York Times

Because of the doubts raised, the bureau went back and examined the more detailed answers given by Hispanics who responded to the census long form.

The New York Times

The company also has a benefits call center that can provide more detailed answers, including income estimates based on an individual's situation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking clarification, prompt the respondent by specifying the areas where you require a "more detailed answer". For example, "Could you elaborate on the financial implications?"

Common error

Avoid automatically equating a "more detailed answer" with a superior one. Sometimes, conciseness and clarity are more valuable than excessive detail. Ensure the additional information directly addresses the core issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more detailed answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "more detailed" is an adjective modifying the noun "answer". It describes a response that includes additional information and elaboration. As Ludwig suggests, it is a standard and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "more detailed answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed expression to either solicit or provide a response that offers greater depth and clarity. According to Ludwig, it is perfectly acceptable for use in written English. While often found in contexts like News & Media and Science, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse settings. Remember, a "more detailed answer" isn't always superior; conciseness can be more effective depending on the situation. When requesting further information, be specific about the areas needing elaboration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more comprehensive response

Focuses on the completeness and scope of the reply.

more thorough explanation

Highlights the detailed and exhaustive nature of the clarification.

more in-depth response

Emphasizes the depth and profundity of the reply.

more elaborate explanation

Suggests a more complex and developed clarification.

more exhaustive answer

Implies a complete and all-inclusive reply.

fuller explanation

Highlights that the clarification offers more details.

more expansive response

Focuses on providing a broader and more extensive reply.

clearer and more complete answer

Adds the attribute of clarity to the response.

more insightful response

Highlights the depth of understanding and perceptiveness.

enhanced explanation

This conveys that the response is better elaborated.

FAQs

How can I request a "more detailed answer" without sounding demanding?

You can politely ask for more information by saying, "Could you please elaborate on...?", or "I would appreciate a "more detailed answer" regarding...".

What are some alternatives to "more detailed answer"?

You can use alternatives like "more comprehensive response", "more thorough explanation", or "more in-depth response" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to provide a "more detailed answer"?

No, sometimes a concise answer is sufficient. A "more detailed answer" is appropriate when clarification or deeper understanding is needed. Always prioritize clarity and relevance.

What's the difference between a "more detailed answer" and a "complete answer"?

A "more detailed answer" provides extra information and elaboration on specific points, whereas a "complete answer" ensures all aspects of the question are addressed, regardless of the level of detail for each aspect. A "complete answer" may or may not be detailed.