to answer the question

USAGE SUMMARY

'to answer the question' is a correct phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are referring to providing an answer to a specific question that has been asked. For example: "I researched the information in order to answer the question I was asked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I have to answer the question.

Independent

To answer the question, Michener dug deeper.

Cornell University

Then you refuse to answer the question?

Cornell University

Are you going to answer the question?

Cornell University

Paul Nuttall refused to answer the question!

The Guardian

McCall's refresh needs to answer the question.

The Guardian - Business

CHUCK TODD: --avoid theanswer the question.

The Washington Post

OBAMA: I'm happy to answer the question.

The Washington Post

Several executives tried to answer the question.

The New York Times

This study is designed to try to answer the question.

Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis

Instead, Bell set out to answer the question.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to answer the question" when directly addressing an inquiry or outlining your intent to provide a response. It's especially useful in formal writing or presentations to clearly signal your purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "to answer the question" excessively in informal conversations or casual writing, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for more natural alternatives like "so," or "well" to transition into your answer.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to answer the question" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as an introductory element within a sentence. It signals the speaker or writer's intention to provide a direct response or solution to a posed inquiry. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to answer the question" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to introduce a response, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as an infinitive phrase that explicitly signals the intent to provide a direct answer, often in formal or professional contexts such as news reporting, academic papers, and presentations. While highly useful for clarity, it's best to avoid overusing it in casual settings. Alternatives like "to address the query" or simply transitioning with "so" can offer more natural-sounding options.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to provide an answer to the question

Adds "provide an answer" for emphasis and clarity, slightly more verbose.

to address the query

Replaces "question" with the more formal "query", suitable for professional or academic contexts.

to respond to the inquiry

Uses "respond" instead of "answer" and "inquiry" instead of "question", increasing formality.

in response to the question

Shifts the focus to the act of responding, suitable as an introductory phrase.

to shed light on the question

Suggests bringing understanding or clarity to the question.

to tackle the question

Implies a more proactive and determined approach to answering the question.

to explain the issue

Focuses on providing an explanation, suitable when the question concerns a problem or situation.

to clarify the matter

Implies resolving confusion or providing a more detailed explanation.

to elucidate the point

Uses "elucidate" to mean 'make clear', fitting in a formal setting.

to resolve the problem

Suggests finding a solution to a problem, relevant when the question is about overcoming an obstacle.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "to answer the question" for variety?

You can use alternatives such as "to address the query", "in response to the question", or "to provide an answer to the question" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "to answer the question"?

It's appropriate in formal settings like presentations, academic papers, or when directly responding to a specific inquiry. It signals a clear intention to provide a direct answer.

Is "to answer the question" too formal for casual conversation?

Yes, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Consider using simpler transitions like "so", "well", or directly stating your answer without a formal introduction.

What's a more concise alternative to "to answer the question"?

Depending on the context, you might simply begin with "Regarding that", or preface with "About that", or even jump right into your response.