reasoned answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"reasoned answer" is a valid phrase and can be used in written English.
It refers to an answer or response that is logical, well thought-out, and supported by evidence or sound reasoning. You can use it in situations where a response or explanation is expected to be thorough and well-supported. Example: During the debate, the candidate provided a well-reasoned answer to the question on immigration policy, citing statistics and personal experiences to support their stance.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In fact, when asked to explain a decision, experts often cannot re-create all the pathways their brains checked out and so cannot give a carefully reasoned answer.

Harvard Business Review

He would give me, to each of my questions, a full and closely reasoned answer, and stop when he had covered the ground.

The New Yorker

If a white man came here on the same general allegations, admitting his sympathy with the plan, but alleging some special prejudice that had kept him off the list, we hardly should think it necessary to meet him with a reasoned answer.

Cornell University

It will be possible to ask a question of the software just as you would if talking to another person, he said; and you could trust that it would return a fully reasoned answer, not just a list of links as Google's search engine does today.

The Guardian - Tech

Perhaps, then, you would prefer not an official proclamation but a reasoned answer.

Huffington Post

Two FERC commissioners dissented: one commissioner agreed that the project was in the public interest but said FERC needs to "more squarely address" greenhouse gas emissions and the social cost of carbon; the other dissenting commissioner said that FERC's order on remand failed to provide a "reasoned answer" to the inquiries required by the D.C. Circuit's August 2017 decision.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"You can throw anything at him and he has an informed, reasoned, eloquent answer," LaMalfa said in a phone interview.

Los Angeles Times

They are wise and honorable, And will, no doubt, with reason answer you.

The New Yorker

It's not just that he is infinitely more articulate than the man he is replacing it's how Obama applies his way with words to explain his reasons, answer our questions and bridge our divisions.

Forbes

For some reason – answers welcome below the line!

The Guardian

For what reason?" Answers were hard to come by.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reasoned answer" when you want to emphasize that a response is not just an off-the-cuff reaction, but a carefully constructed argument.

Common error

Avoid using "reasoned answer" when a simple agreement or acknowledgement is sufficient. This phrase implies a deeper level of analysis and justification, not just a 'yes' or 'no'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reasoned answer" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "reasoned" modifies "answer". It describes a particular quality of the answer, indicating it is logical, well-supported, and thoughtfully constructed. As Ludwig suggests, it denotes an answer that goes beyond a simple statement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reasoned answer" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe an answer that is logical, well-supported, and thoughtfully constructed. According to Ludwig, it is often used in contexts where a thorough and justified response is expected. Its function is to emphasize the thoughtfulness and logical analysis behind an answer. The phrase's register is generally neutral to formal, with frequent occurrences in News & Media and Academia. When seeking alternatives, considered answer, logical explanation, and well-founded response are viable options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considered answer

Emphasizes the thoughtfulness and deliberation behind the response.

logical explanation

Focuses on the clarity and coherence of the explanation.

well-founded response

Highlights that the response is based on solid evidence or reasoning.

substantiated reply

Indicates that the reply is supported by proof or strong arguments.

coherent explanation

Stresses the orderly and consistent nature of the explanation.

thoughtful response

Highlights the care and attention given to formulating the response.

rational answer

Focuses on the use of reason and logic in the answer.

evidence-based answer

Stresses that the answer is based on factual evidence.

justified response

Indicates that the response is defensible and reasonable.

supported explanation

Highlights that the explanation is backed by additional information or data.

FAQs

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

You can use "reasoned answer" to describe a response that's logical and well-supported. For example, "The professor provided a "reasoned answer" to the student's complex question, citing multiple sources."

What's a good alternative to "reasoned answer"?

Alternatives include "considered answer", "logical explanation", or "well-founded response" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to provide a "reasoned answer"?

No, a "reasoned answer" is typically required when addressing complex or controversial issues that demand a thorough and well-supported explanation. Simpler questions may only need a direct response.

What makes an answer "reasoned"?

A "reasoned" answer is characterized by its logical structure, evidence-based arguments, and clear articulation of supporting details. It demonstrates critical thinking and careful consideration of the topic.