whole answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "whole answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the complete response or solution to a question or problem. Example: "To fully understand the topic, I need the whole answer, not just a summary."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It may not be the whole answer.

The New York Times

It isn't really the whole answer.

The New York Times - Books

It is not the whole answer.

The Guardian

Money indeed is not the whole answer.

The New York Times

This is not the whole answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

But technology isn't the whole answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

Assisting the rebels is not the whole answer.

The New York Times

I do not think that is the whole answer.

The Guardian

Shiny gadgets will never be the whole answer.

The Guardian

I'm not sure I ever got the whole answer.

The Guardian - Film

Blake himself does not provide the whole answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To maintain clarity, especially in academic or professional writing, be specific about what constitutes the "whole answer" in your context. Outline the key components or aspects included.

Common error

Don't assume that providing the "whole answer" guarantees a perfect or flawless solution. It simply means addressing all relevant aspects, which may still have limitations or require further refinement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "whole answer" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies a comprehensive and complete response or solution. Ludwig shows this phrase is commonly used to express the need for a thorough understanding of a topic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "whole answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies a complete and comprehensive response or solution. As demonstrated by Ludwig, its usage spans across diverse contexts, from news and media to scientific and formal business settings. Although "whole answer" can be used in different registers, it is particularly useful when you need to ensure a complete and thorough explanation or solution. While alternatives such as "complete solution" or "full explanation" exist, "whole answer" effectively emphasizes the necessity of addressing all relevant aspects of a topic. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the context accurately represents a holistic approach to avoid misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete solution

Focuses on the problem-solving aspect, implying a solution that addresses all parts of an issue.

comprehensive explanation

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the explanation, covering all relevant details.

full explanation

Suggests a complete and detailed account, leaving no important information out.

entire response

Highlights the completeness of the reply or reaction to a question or situation.

total solution

Indicates a solution that encompasses all aspects and requirements of a problem.

the complete picture

Refers to understanding all aspects of a situation, not just the superficial details.

the full story

Implies a complete narrative or account of events, including all relevant details and perspectives.

the bottom line

Focuses on the most important or fundamental aspect of a situation, representing the core truth or solution.

the long and short of it

Indicates a concise summary that captures all essential information.

the be-all and end-all

Suggests the ultimate or most important solution or explanation, beyond which nothing else matters.

FAQs

What does the phrase "whole answer" mean?

The phrase "whole answer" refers to a complete and comprehensive response or solution that addresses all aspects of a question, problem, or situation. It implies that nothing essential is left out.

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

You can use "whole answer" in a sentence like this: "To truly understand the issue, we need the "whole answer", not just a brief overview."

Which is correct, "whole answer" or "holistic answer"?

Both "whole answer" and "holistic answer" can be correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Whole answer" refers to completeness, while "holistic answer" refers to considering all related factors or systems. Choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

What can I say instead of "whole answer"?

You can use alternatives like "complete solution", "comprehensive explanation", or "full explanation" depending on the context.