only one definite answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only one definite answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing that a question or problem has a single, clear solution. Example: "In this case, there is only one definite answer to the equation, which is 42."

✓ Grammatically correct

Language Testing

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Since there is only one definite answer in MC, there is no need to worry about inter- and intra-rater reliability, and computer scoring can be readily adopted.

Language Testing in Asia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mr. Skarsgard said he came away from "Taking Sides" with only one definite conclusion: "You cannot be apolitical, as Furtwängler tried to be.

The New York Times

By the uniqueness of stabilizable solution of (3.3), we know that (3.3) has only one positive-definite solution.

Advances in Difference Equations

Seven out of the eight participants who provided only one answer gave an incorrect answer.

BMC Medical Education

And there's only one right answer".

The New York Times - Magazine

There was only one possible answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is one and only one right answer".

The New York Times

Only one possible answer.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

There is only one correct answer among the four options.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Each has only one correct answer.

Huffington Post

Each question had three options and only one correct answer.

BMC Endocrine Disorders

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "only one definite answer", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation where a single, unambiguous solution exists. Avoid using it in scenarios where multiple interpretations or solutions are possible.

Common error

Avoid using "only one definite answer" when the situation is subjective or open to interpretation. Overstating certainty can undermine your credibility if the answer is later proven to be debatable or incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only one definite answer" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a predicate nominative or object of a preposition, emphasizing the existence of a single, conclusive solution. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

33%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only one definite answer" is a grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the existence of a singular, unambiguous solution. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for use in various contexts, particularly those requiring clarity and precision. While its frequency is uncommon, the phrase is readily understood and effectively conveys the intended meaning. Alternatives like "a single definitive solution" can add nuance, but the core message remains consistent. Ensure appropriate usage to avoid overstating certainty in subjective scenarios. Using authoritative sources can further cement its validity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a single definitive solution

Replaces "only one" with "a single" and "definite answer" with "definitive solution" to emphasize the uniqueness and conclusiveness of the solution.

just one clear answer

Substitutes "only one definite" with "just one clear" for simplicity and clarity.

exactly one correct response

Replaces "definite answer" with "correct response" to focus on the accuracy of the answer.

precisely one conclusive reply

Uses "precisely" instead of "only" and "conclusive reply" instead of "definite answer" to add emphasis on exactness and finality.

one unambiguous solution

Replaces "definite answer" with "unambiguous solution" stressing the lack of any possible misunderstanding.

solely one certain response

Uses "solely" and "certain response" to stress exclusivity and the unquestionable nature of the answer.

a unique right answer

Changes "only one" to "a unique" and "definite" to "right", highlighting the singular and correct nature of the answer.

one and only absolute answer

Adds emphasis by using "one and only" and "absolute answer" to highlight the uniqueness and certainty.

a single incontrovertible response

Replaces with a more formal tone suggesting there's no room for disagreement on the answer.

the only possible solution

Focuses on the lack of alternative options.

FAQs

How can I use "only one definite answer" in a sentence?

You can use "only one definite answer" to emphasize that a question or problem has a single, clear solution. For example: "In this multiple-choice test, there is "only one correct answer"".

What are some alternatives to "only one definite answer"?

Alternatives include "a single definitive solution", "just one clear answer", or "exactly one correct response", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "only one definite answer" in formal writing?

Yes, "only one definite answer" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in contexts where clarity and precision are important. However, consider more sophisticated alternatives like "a unique solution" to enhance the writing's impact.

What is the difference between "only one definite answer" and "only one possible answer"?

"Only one definite answer" implies a clear, unambiguous solution, while "only one possible answer" suggests that no other solutions exist, even if the existing solution isn't necessarily clear or definitive. The former emphasizes clarity, the latter, exclusivity.