unequivocal response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unequivocal response" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to describe a clear and unambiguous answer to a question or situation. Example: "The committee provided an unequivocal response to the proposal, leaving no room for doubt about their decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

-- Hillary Clinton offers an unequivocal response in her new campaign video, "Hillary".

The New York Times

My unequivocal response to Bernard Avishai's most illuminating article is the Hebrew: halvai — may it be.

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm not going to pretend there's an unequivocal response to this query.

The New York Times - Magazine

"He's been a disaster," is his unequivocal response, clarifying that he was "more against Sarkozy than [he] was for Hollande".

The Guardian - Business

Then aged 71, he recalls giving an unequivocal response: "I will never, ever run a company again".

The Economist

"No you fucking can't, what do you think this is – a fucking tea party?" came the unequivocal response from Allan Border.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"We…specifically questioned our crews as to the suitability and have received unequivocal responses that say yes, it's a great site with appropriate facilities and that they enjoy good sleep and comfort".

Independent

As only unequivocal responses were considered, this contributed to the lower response rate for the severe group.

BMC Geriatrics

Muromonab-CD3 produced an unequivocal cytokine response using the aqueous phase assay that was remarkably similar in magnitude to the solid phase assay response at 24 h.

British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology

Estrogen pretreatment of breast cancer cells increases PR steady state levels, resulting in an unequivocal progesterone response that upregulates key members of growth factor pathways.

BMC Cancer

Kavanagh was unequivocal in his response.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unequivocal response" to convey certainty and remove any possibility of misinterpretation. This phrase is particularly effective in formal contexts or when addressing sensitive topics where clarity is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "unequivocal response" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler, more natural alternatives like "clear answer" or "direct reply" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unequivocal response" functions as a noun phrase where "unequivocal" is an adjective modifying the noun "response". It describes the type of response being given, emphasizing its clarity and lack of ambiguity. This is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unequivocal response" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a clear and unambiguous answer or reaction. According to Ludwig, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal settings. When writing, use "unequivocal response" to express certainty and avoid any potential for misinterpretation. However, be mindful of the tone, as it may sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider using alternatives like "clear answer" or "direct reply" in informal contexts. Top authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Definitive answer

Emphasizes the conclusiveness and finality of the answer.

Unambiguous reply

Focuses on the clarity and lack of potential for misinterpretation in the response.

Explicit reaction

Highlights the overt and clearly expressed nature of the reaction.

Decisive answer

Implies a firm and resolute answer that leaves no room for doubt.

Categorical denial

Specifies a firm and absolute refusal, leaving no room for ambiguity.

Resolute stance

Highlights the firmness and unwavering nature of the position taken.

Direct affirmation

Emphasizes the straightforward and positive nature of the confirmation.

Clear-cut response

Stresses the simplicity and lack of complexity in the reaction.

Positive affirmation

Expresses agreement and support.

Firm Rejection

Emphasizes strong negative response.

FAQs

How to use "unequivocal response" in a sentence?

You can use "unequivocal response" to describe a clear and unambiguous answer to a question or situation. For example: "The CEO gave an "unequivocal response" to the shareholder's question, clarifying the company's position."

What can I say instead of "unequivocal response"?

You can use alternatives like "definitive answer", "unambiguous reply", or "explicit reaction" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "unequivocal response" or "equivocal response"?

"Unequivocal response" is used to describe a clear and direct answer. "Equivocal response", on the other hand, means the opposite; it is used to describe an ambiguous or hedging reply.

Is "unequivocal response" appropriate for informal conversation?

While grammatically correct, "unequivocal response" may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "clear answer" or "direct reply" might be more suitable.