most obvious answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "most obvious answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the answer that is the clearest or easiest to identify in a given context. Example: "When considering the options, the most obvious answer is to choose the one that aligns with our goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The most obvious answer was language.

The New Yorker

The most obvious answer is its insularity.

The Guardian - Tech

The most obvious answer is the English language.

The New Yorker

The most obvious answer is through their parents.

Independent

Money worries are perhaps the most obvious answer.

The Guardian - Business

The most obvious answer, for consumers, is the rise of three-dimensional films.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The most obvious answers are often there all along.

Independent

The contestants, two families competing, have to guess the most obvious answers which are matched against a survey of 100 Australians who provide answers.

Independent

According to Chris Lake, the academy's head of professional development, it's about working across boundaries, being adaptable and not looking for the most obvious answers.

The Guardian

With the film set to be released today, I took the necessary time to have a conference call with the entire Broken Lizard team about the most obvious answers to the most important question: who have they always wanted to smoke a joint with in the entirety of human history?

Vice

Sometimes, the most obvious of answers is all you need.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "most obvious answer", ensure the context clearly establishes the question or problem being addressed. This helps the audience understand why the answer is considered obvious.

Common error

Avoid overusing "most obvious answer" when the answer may not be obvious to everyone. Consider your audience's knowledge level and adjust your language accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most obvious answer" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or direct object. It identifies the solution or explanation that is the easiest to recognize or understand. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "most obvious answer" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to denote the clearest or most apparent solution to a given problem or question. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. The phrase finds frequent application in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While alternatives like "clearest solution" or "simplest explanation" exist, "most obvious answer" serves as a direct and easily understood way to convey the idea of a straightforward resolution. When employing this phrase, it's vital to consider the audience's perspective and ensure that the answer is indeed obvious to them. Ludwig’s examples illustrate the variety of contexts in which this phrase can be appropriately used, underscoring its versatility and common usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

easiest answer

Focuses on the simplicity of the solution.

simplest explanation

Highlights the uncomplicated nature of the explanation.

clearest solution

Emphasizes the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the solution.

most apparent solution

Stresses the immediately visible nature of the solution.

most straightforward answer

Indicates the direct and uncomplicated nature of the response.

first thing that comes to mind

Highlights the immediate and intuitive nature of the answer.

logical conclusion

Focuses on the reasoning and deduction leading to the answer.

initial reaction

Captures the first response or thought upon encountering a problem.

knee-jerk response

Implies an immediate and unreflective reaction.

default setting

Refers to a pre-determined or automatic response.

FAQs

How can I use "most obvious answer" in a sentence?

The phrase "most obvious answer" is used to indicate the clearest or most apparent solution to a problem or question. For example, "When considering budget cuts, the "most obvious answer" is to reduce unnecessary spending."

What can I say instead of "most obvious answer"?

You can use alternatives like "clearest solution", "simplest explanation", or "most straightforward answer" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "most obvious answer"?

It's appropriate when the solution or explanation is genuinely clear and easily discernible. Be mindful not to use it sarcastically or when the answer is subjective.

Is "most obvious answer" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "most obvious answer" is generally suitable for formal writing, but consider whether a more precise or nuanced term like "logical conclusion" or "primary reason" might be more appropriate.