noncommittal answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "noncommittal answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a response that does not express a clear opinion or decision, often to avoid taking a definitive stance. Example: "When asked about his plans for the future, he gave a noncommittal answer that left everyone guessing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Then, evidently displeased with her politely noncommittal answer, he asked to talk to her husband.

The New York Times

But his noncommittal answer was telling in and of itself: the goal, he said, is to "get people talking about NBC".

The New York Times

And there were movie-within-the-movie moments, like when Dr. Gerberding asked if the C.D.C. had a local State Department liaison, got a noncommittal answer and then insisted: "No, I mean in the real world.

The New York Times

I don't recall exactly how it was phrased - if it was, "You should" or "You can" or just mentioning it as a possibility… I do remember the reporter (sic) giving a noncommittal answer"." Having spoken to both the producer and the reporter again, both remain adamant that they cannot recall Mr Ornstein raising the possibility of speaking to these Israeli players.

The Economist

Cantor gives a noncommittal answer: "I look forward to looking at that further," he says.

Huffington Post

Gervais gave this noncommittal answer even though he said he was raised attending a Christian Church and obviously somewhere along the line decided to reject what he was taught there.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

They were angered by his noncommittal answers to questions about whether the Voting Rights Act permits the creation of Congressional districts with a majority of black voters.

The New York Times

The police opened a new investigation, but then closed it, saying that the News International employees they interviewed had denied being involved or given noncommittal answers.

The New York Times

And whenever they asked me personal questions, I would give completely noncommittal answers to make them think I was much older.

The New York Times

McDonald will meet the chairman on Monday to determine his future but the noncommittal answers to questions about whether he would walk away suggested little likelihood of him continuing.

The Guardian - Sport

I had asked about the test before but had gotten a variety of noncommittal answers from clinicians though, in their defense, I never pursued it vigorously.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "noncommittal answer" when you want to describe a response that intentionally avoids expressing a clear opinion or taking a firm position. It's particularly useful in situations where someone is being evasive or diplomatic.

Common error

Avoid using "noncommittal answer" excessively in formal writing, as it can sometimes come across as insincere or lacking transparency. Consider providing more direct or specific language unless the intention is to be deliberately vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "noncommittal answer" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "noncommittal" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "answer". It describes a specific type of answer characterized by its lack of decisiveness. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "noncommittal answer" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used to describe a response that deliberately avoids taking a firm position or expressing a clear opinion. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral formality level. While it is an appropriate phrase to use to describe a vague or evasive response, related phrases such as "vague reply", "evasive response", and "ambiguous response" can provide nuanced alternatives. Remember to use it thoughtfully, as overuse can sometimes imply a lack of transparency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

evasive response

This alternative suggests an intention to avoid directness or honesty in the answer.

vague reply

The answer lacks precision or detail, making it unclear.

ambiguous response

The answer is open to multiple interpretations, lacking clarity.

guarded statement

The response is cautious and reserved, revealing little.

hedging answer

This response avoids a direct commitment by using qualifying language.

equivocal answer

The response is deliberately ambiguous or unclear.

unforthcoming reply

The respondent is unwilling to provide information or express an opinion.

indefinite response

The answer is not clearly defined or determined.

non-definitive answer

The answer does not provide a final or conclusive statement.

carefully worded answer

Suggests that the answer was phrased very deliberately in order to avoid taking a firm position.

FAQs

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

You can use "noncommittal answer" to describe a response that avoids taking a clear position. For example: "When asked about the merger, the CEO gave a "noncommittal answer", revealing little about the company's plans."

What's a better alternative to "noncommittal answer"?

Depending on the context, you could use "vague reply", "evasive response", or "ambiguous response" as alternatives to "noncommittal answer".

When is it appropriate to give a noncommittal answer?

Giving a "noncommittal answer" is appropriate when you need to avoid taking a stance, maintain confidentiality, or are not yet ready to reveal your intentions. However, overuse can damage trust.

What does it mean when someone gives a noncommittal answer?

A "noncommittal answer" suggests the person is either unwilling or unable to provide a clear or definitive response. It often indicates they're avoiding taking a firm position.