there lies the answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The sentence 'there lies the answer' is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to suggest that the solution to the problem discussed can be found close by. For example, "We have been looking for the solution to this problem for hours, and there lies the answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Just conceivably, beneath the drive of a modest house in the suburbs of Detroit, there lies the answer to one of America's most enduring mysteries: what happened to Jimmy Hoffa?

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

And therein lies the answer.

BBC

There lies the conundrum.

The New York Times - Sports

There lies the difference.

The New York Times - Sports

There lies the rub.

The New York Times - Sports

There lies the French problem.

The New York Times - Sports

And there lies the problem.

The New York Times

And there lies the rub.

The Economist

There lies a likely answer in the assets that people already have.

Forbes

I know that somewhere in there, deep in the code, lie the answers to my prayers.

TechCrunch

Don't you think I'm awful?' " 'No,' I answered firmly.... 'Standing there lying right to my face!... Have you ever given me an honest answer about anything?' " Eventually, Sweetie gets around to observing: "He turned his face toward me and gagged.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase when you want to emphasize the location or source from which the answer originates, giving it a sense of place and context.

Common error

Avoid using "there lies the answer" in straightforward situations where the answer is already well-known or easily apparent. This phrase is most effective when suggesting a hidden or less obvious solution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there lies the answer" functions as an existential clause, introducing the location or source of a solution. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, suggesting a readily available solution. The phrase serves to emphasize where one can find the solution or explanation to a problem.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "there lies the answer" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to highlight the location or source of a solution or explanation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase suggests the answer is readily available. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various writing contexts, especially news and media, science, and formal business communication. The phrase is often employed to create a sense of anticipation, directing the audience to a specific place or source for a potential discovery. While versatile, it's best used when the answer is not immediately obvious, adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the solution resides there

Replaces "lies" with "resides", emphasizing the location of the solution.

the answer is found there

Uses a passive construction to highlight the discovery of the answer.

that's where the answer is

Shifts the emphasis to "that's where", making it more conversational.

the key lies within that

Emphasizes that the solution is intrinsic or contained within something else.

the secret to the solution lies there

Adds an element of mystery, suggesting the answer is hidden.

the response is situated there

Uses more formal language, replacing "lies" with "is situated".

you'll find the answer there

Directs the listener to a specific location to discover the solution.

the resolution is positioned there

Emphasizes the finality of the solution, replacing "answer" with "resolution".

within that, you'll discover the answer

Inverts the sentence structure to emphasize the location first.

the explanation can be found there

Focuses on understanding or clarifying something, replacing "answer" with "explanation".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "there lies the answer"?

You can try alternatives like "the solution resides there", "the answer is found there", or "that's where the answer is" depending on the context.

Is "there lies the answer" formal or informal?

The phrase is relatively neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in writing than in casual conversation.

What does "there lies the answer" imply?

It implies that the solution to a problem or a mystery can be found in a particular place or situation, suggesting a sense of discovery.

How does using "there lies the answer" affect the tone of writing?

It can add a touch of drama or intrigue, hinting that the answer is significant or not immediately apparent. For a simpler statement, consider using "the answer is".