substantive answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantive answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is meaningful, significant, or provides substantial information. Example: "In order to move forward, we need a substantive answer to our questions regarding the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Barra had no substantive answer.

The Guardian - Business

If she'd ventured a substantive answer and misidentified the Bush Doctrine as something it clearly is not, she'd be finished.

The Guardian - Opinion

The standard response to a question like this is to sidestep it and say: "I've got a lot more to do," but Brown gave a substantive answer.

The Guardian

"Political for the mayor means, 'I don't have a substantive answer to the allegations being made but I have to say something, so let me attack,' " he said.

The New York Times

He concludes:Cain deserves some credit for addressing his critics and offering a substantive answer about China as a security threat, confirming reports that he has been cramming on foreign policy, but he still wasn't completely coherent or informed.

The Economist

I could give very erudite and intimidating answers to other people, the sort of bullshit that anyone with an English degree can throw up as a smokescreen, but I didn't have a substantive answer that I believed in.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Nominees refused to give substantive answers.

The Economist

Substantive answers to the financial crisis are not the stuff of sound bites.

The New York Times

The article was a clarion call for substantive questions from senators and similarly substantive answers from Supreme Court nominees.

The New York Times

And because of the capacity that we build up within this office, will you be able to get him some, I think, fairly substantive answers quickly, not only to determine what is going on, but to help facilitate the response.

The New York Times

This failure to provide substantive answers to questions grew thereafter, and below are some examples of an inevitably selective range of refusals by ministers - 10 years ago and most recently - using disproportionate cost as a justification.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantive answer" when you want to emphasize that the response is not superficial or evasive, but instead provides real information or insight. It's particularly useful in contexts where a clear and meaningful response is expected.

Common error

While "substantive answer" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "real answer" or "useful information" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "substantive answer" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "substantive" modifies the noun "answer". This combination emphasizes the quality and content of the answer, indicating that it is meaningful, thorough, and addresses the core issue. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is standard across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantive answer" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a meaningful, detailed, and relevant response. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is appropriate in formal and neutral contexts such as news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. While it is widely accepted and understood, consider alternatives like "meaningful response" or "informative answer" in more informal settings. The phrase’s consistent usage across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and effectiveness in conveying the need for depth and clarity in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relevant answer

Emphasizes that the answer directly addresses the question asked.

informative answer

Focuses on the amount of useful information provided.

meaningful response

Emphasizes the significance and importance of the answer.

significant response

Highlights the importance and impact of the answer.

in-depth answer

Indicates a deep and profound level of detail in the answer.

thorough response

Highlights the completeness and comprehensiveness of the answer.

detailed explanation

Focuses on the thoroughness and level of detail provided in the answer.

comprehensive reply

Stresses the inclusive and all-encompassing nature of the answer.

insightful response

Emphasizes the wisdom and understanding conveyed in the answer.

well-reasoned explanation

Highlights the logical and rational basis of the answer.

FAQs

What does "substantive answer" mean?

A "substantive answer" is a response that provides meaningful, important, and relevant information. It's an answer that goes beyond superficialities and offers genuine insight or detail.

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

You can use "substantive answer" in sentences like, "The politician failed to provide a "substantive answer" to the question about tax reform" or "We need a "substantive answer", not just empty promises".

What are some alternatives to "substantive answer"?

Alternatives include "meaningful response", "detailed explanation", "thorough response", or "informative answer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "substantive answer"?

It's appropriate in formal contexts, such as academic discussions, professional communications, or news reports, where a detailed and meaningful response is expected. It is best to avoid it in casual conversations where it could sound overly formal.