the answer is still unclear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the answer is still unclear" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation where the response or solution to a question or problem remains ambiguous or not fully understood. Example: "After reviewing the data and conducting further analysis, I must conclude that the answer is still unclear regarding the project's outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Three years into the test, the answer is still unclear.

The New York Times

Little explanation was given at the time, and the answer is still unclear.

The New York Times

If the answer is still unclear to you, you may look at it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Others asked rhetorically, "If you don't speak up, who will?" The answer was still unclear -- until I realized one significant difference between the two camps: the speakers' own status as one of society's in or out-groups.

Huffington Post

If you look to science, the answers are still unclear.

Vice

Here the precise answer is still unclear.

EMBO Journal

This question's answer is still unclear as the BBC is going to be pulled for some time by the gravitational force of broadcast.

The Guardian

When the authors did not reply or their answer was still unclear, empty fields were marked with 'Not Reported (NR)'.

Critical Care

When the authors could not be contacted, did not reply or their answer was still unclear, empty fields were marked 'Not Reported (NR)'.

Critical Care

Sign up now Theget the best of VICE Canswerdelisered stillght to your inbox.

Vice

The answer is still yes.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the answer is still unclear" when you want to acknowledge that a question or problem lacks a definitive solution or explanation, even after investigation or discussion. It's suitable for academic papers, news reports, and general writing where uncertainty needs to be conveyed.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "the answer is still unclear" in close proximity within your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the answer is still unclear" serves as a declarative statement indicating a lack of resolution or certainty regarding a particular question or issue. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is usable and suitable for expressing ambiguity. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use across various domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

37%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the answer is still unclear" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a lack of certainty or resolution regarding a question or issue. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s a correct and usable expression in English. Its frequency is considered common, appearing across various contexts like News & Media and Science, but less frequently in Academia or Formal & Business settings. While versatile, avoid overuse for stylistic clarity. Alternatives like "the solution remains elusive" or "the matter is unresolved" can offer variety. When using this phrase, be mindful of potential over-reliance and explore related expressions to add depth and nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The solution remains elusive

Focuses on the difficulty in finding a solution, rather than explicitly stating the answer is unknown.

The truth is still unknown

Directly states that the factual answer is not yet discovered.

The matter is unresolved

Indicates that the issue has not been settled or decided.

No conclusion has been reached

Emphasizes the absence of a final decision or agreement.

The outcome is yet to be determined

Focuses on the future, indicating the result is not known at the present time.

It's still up in the air

An idiomatic expression suggesting the outcome is uncertain and undecided.

The situation is ambiguous

Highlights the lack of clarity and multiple possible interpretations.

It remains to be seen

Suggests that the answer will become clear in the future.

The issue is still pending

Indicates the matter is awaiting resolution or decision.

We're still in the dark

An informal expression indicating a lack of information or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "the answer is still unclear" in a sentence?

You can use "the answer is still unclear" to express that a solution or explanation to a question or problem remains unknown or uncertain. For example, "Despite numerous studies, the cause of the disease remains unclear, and "the answer is still unclear"".

What are some alternatives to "the answer is still unclear"?

You can use alternatives like "the solution remains elusive", "the matter is unresolved", or "it's still up in the air depending on the context". See more at "the solution remains elusive", "the matter is unresolved", or "it's still up in the air".

Is it appropriate to use "the answer is still unclear" in formal writing?

Yes, "the answer is still unclear" is appropriate for formal writing as it clearly conveys uncertainty or a lack of resolution. However, ensure the tone aligns with the rest of your document and consider alternatives if a more nuanced expression is needed.

What's the difference between "the answer is still unclear" and "the answer is unknown"?

"The answer is unknown" simply states that the answer is not currently known. "The answer is still unclear" implies that there has been an attempt to find an answer, but the efforts have not resulted in a clear solution. It suggests a process of investigation that has not yet yielded results.