without an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

"without an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is not getting a response to a question or statement. For example, "The dog looked up at its owner, but the human remained silent, leaving the canine without an answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He left without an answer.

Independent

Lust remains "a question without an answer".

The New Yorker

4. I am never without an answer.

The New York Times - Tech

"It's not a situation without an answer.

The Guardian

But without an answer, Obama's peace efforts are doomed.

The New York Times

In Syria, this may be a question without an answer.

The New York Times

This image leaves the audience without an answer for what happens next.

The New York Times

On the third visit, the nurse would not leave without an answer.

The New York Times - Sports

"What would Margaret say?" is a question without an answer, and maybe that's just as well.

The New York Times

At the moment, that's a question without an answer," Mr. Folli said.

The New York Times

A brainteaser of a question, it left Burroughs without an answer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger synonyms like "unresolved" or "unanswered" if you want to emphasize the state of the question rather than the lack of a response.

Common error

Avoid using "without an answer" when active voice would be more direct. For instance, instead of "He left without an answer", consider "He didn't answer before leaving."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without an answer" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action is performed or a state exists. Ludwig's examples show it describing situations where inquiries are ignored or problems remain unsolved.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "without an answer" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a lack of response or resolution. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. While versatile, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly identifies the unresolved question or issue. Alternatives such as "unanswered" or "unresolved" can offer more concise alternatives. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various communication styles, but careful consideration prevents passive voice overuse. As shown by the high frequency of examples in Ludwig, "without an answer" is a common phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unanswered question

Focuses on the question itself remaining unresolved.

without a response

Emphasizes the absence of any reaction or reply.

lacking a solution

Highlights the absence of a resolution to a problem.

without resolution

Similar to 'lacking a solution' but more formal and emphasizes the lack of finality.

remaining unresolved

Indicates that something continues to be unsettled or undecided.

no answer available

States directly that an answer is not currently obtainable.

a mystery unsolved

Presents the situation as an ongoing enigma.

without clarification

Focuses on the lack of explanation or detail.

still pending a reply

Indicates that a response is expected but has not yet been received.

awaiting an explanation

Similar to 'still pending a reply' but specifically relates to needing an explanation.

FAQs

How can I use "without an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "without an answer" to describe a question that hasn't been resolved or a request that hasn't been addressed. For example, "The inquiry remained "unanswered question" after the meeting."

What are some alternatives to "without an answer"?

Alternatives include "unanswered question", "without resolution", or "no answer available", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "without an answer" or "unanswered"?

Both are correct, but "unanswered" is more concise. "Without an answer" might be preferred when emphasizing the process or situation leading to the lack of a response, while "unanswered" directly states the condition. Using "unanswered" is more direct.

Can "without an answer" be used for things other than questions?

Yes, it can describe any situation where a response or solution is lacking. For example, "The plea for help went "without a response"", indicating a lack of action or assistance.