provide an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"Provide an answer" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask someone to respond to a question with an answer. For example, "Please provide an answer to the following question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Turning to sociology might provide an answer.

The Guardian

The new studies provide an answer.

The New York Times

These pictures provide an answer.

The New Yorker

Hollywood can provide an answer".

The New York Times

Three books seek to provide an answer.

The Guardian

The seat could provide an answer.

The New York Times

Sometimes calling doesn't provide an answer, either.

The New York Times

Baseball is about to provide an answer.

The New York Times - Sports

Yellen tried to provide an answer.

The New Yorker

Search engines provide an answer to everything.

The Guardian

He could not provide an answer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "provide an answer" when you want to emphasize the act of offering a formal, complete, and considered response, especially in situations where a simple yes or no is insufficient.

Common error

While grammatically correct, using "provide an answer" in casual conversation can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "answer" or "respond" to maintain a natural tone in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide an answer" functions as a verb phrase, where "provide" is the verb and "an answer" is the direct object. It describes the action of giving or supplying a response to a question or problem. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "provide an answer" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression across various writing contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it's a usable phrase in written English and suggests using it when you want to ask someone to respond to a question with an answer. While versatile, it leans towards a neutral to formal register. For informal settings, consider alternatives like "answer" or "respond". Key related phrases include "give a response" and "offer a solution". Remember that, while grammatically sound, overuse in casual contexts can make your speech or writing sound overly formal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Give a response

Emphasizes the act of giving information in response.

Offer a solution

Focuses on providing a resolution to a problem.

Furnish an explanation

Highlights the act of giving a detailed account or clarification.

Supply the information

Emphasizes the delivery of specific data or facts.

Offer insight

Focuses on providing a deeper understanding or perspective.

Present a finding

Highlights the act of revealing results or discoveries.

Deliver a reply

Focuses on the act of answering in a more formal or official manner.

Proffer a reason

Emphasizes offering a justification or cause.

Share the answer

Highlights the act of disseminating the response to others.

Disclose the solution

Focuses on revealing a previously hidden resolution.

FAQs

How can I use "provide an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "provide an answer" when requesting a formal or complete response. For example, "The report should "provide an answer" to the question of financial feasibility".

What are some alternatives to "provide an answer"?

Alternatives include "give a response", "offer a solution", or "furnish an explanation", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "provide an answer" or just "answer"?

"Provide an answer" is more formal and emphasizes a complete and considered response. "Answer" is more general and suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

What is the difference between "provide an answer" and "offer a solution"?

"Provide an answer" is a general response to a question. "Offer a solution" specifically refers to resolving a problem or issue.