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CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
shortest answer
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "shortest answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting a brief response or reply to a question or prompt. Example: "Please provide the shortest answer to the question: What is your favorite color?"
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
11 human-written examples
The shortest answer is: Baumbach doesn't make documentaries but dramatic features, and fiction has been his redemption.
News & Media
When asked whether he thought he would return, he responded crisply, "Yeah, I do," his shortest answer of the news conference.
News & Media
When asked if the family issues had anything to do with recent reports of domestic disturbances at his house, Burress gave his shortest answer of the call.
News & Media
The shortest answer is doing.
News & Media
But the simplest answer to whether Judaism is Twitter-able may be the shortest answer.
News & Media
The shortest answer is the Great Recession and austerity policies of EU policymakers.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
47 human-written examples
The short answer: money.
News & Media
The short answer, yes.
News & Media
Short answer: who knows?
News & Media
(My short answer: no).
News & Media
Short answer: yes.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
In situations where detail is not as important as getting a quick understanding, asking for the "shortest answer" ensures that only the essential information is conveyed.
Common error
Avoid using "shortest answer" when a comprehensive explanation is necessary. While brevity is valuable, ensure that the response still provides adequate context and avoids oversimplification, which can lead to misunderstandings or inaccuracies.
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
"Shortest answer" functions as a request or instruction, typically within a question or prompt. It directs the respondent to provide the most concise response possible. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
News & Media
80%
Wiki
10%
Formal & Business
5%
Less common in
Science
2%
Encyclopedias
1%
Social Media
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "shortest answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to request a brief and direct response. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, and it serves the purpose of eliciting efficient communication. While the phrase is generally appropriate, it's important to consider the need for completeness versus brevity in each situation. Alternatives such as "briefest response" or "most concise reply" can be used in more formal settings. Remember to prioritize clarity and context when using this phrase to ensure the message is effectively conveyed.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
most concise reply
This alternative emphasizes the brevity and lack of unnecessary detail in the response.
briefest response
Focuses specifically on the extremely short nature of the answer.
quickest reply
Highlights the speed with which the answer can be given and understood.
most succinct response
Emphasizes the clarity and precision in a few words.
pithiest answer
Implies that the answer is not only short but also full of meaning.
terse reply
Suggests the answer is brief to the point of being somewhat rude or unfriendly.
most direct answer
Highlights the straightforward and unambiguous nature of the response, although might not be the shortest.
in a nutshell
This alternative conveys the same information with a figure of speech.
bottom line
Focuses on the essential point of the answer, condensing information to its core meaning.
the long and short of it
Summarizes a situation by presenting a short explanation after implying there is a long one.
FAQs
When is it appropriate to ask for the "shortest answer"?
It's appropriate when you need a quick, concise response and the details are not crucial. For example, if you're asking for a summary of a complex topic, requesting the "shortest answer" can help avoid unnecessary detail.
What's a more formal alternative to "shortest answer"?
In formal settings, consider using phrases like "briefest response" or "most concise reply" as alternatives. These options maintain professionalism while still emphasizing the need for brevity.
How does "shortest answer" differ from "short answer"?
"Shortest answer" implies an attempt to minimize the response as much as possible, while "short answer" simply indicates a brief response without necessarily striving for absolute minimum length. The former is more emphatic about conciseness.
Is "shortest answer" always the best approach in communication?
No, the "shortest answer" isn't always optimal. Sometimes a more detailed explanation is needed to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings. Consider the context and audience before prioritizing brevity over thoroughness.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
87%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested