write an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "write an answer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to provide a response or solution to a question or problem. Example: "Please write an answer to the following question in complete sentences."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I only write an answer in the grid if I'm absolutely sure it's right.

The Guardian

Those taking the final will have one hour to write an answer to the following question, without the aid of notes or books.

Yale University

As part of the experiment, students were asked to write an answer to that dreaded but inevitable interview question, "Please describe your greatest weakness". Afterward they were asked to report how anxious they were feeling.

University of California, Berkeley

The first time I tried to write an answer to this, we got so many follow-up questions from people who were still confused that I decided to try to answer it again, this time much more comprehensively.

Cornell University

On Thursday she asked audience members to write an answer to one of those questions on a piece of eggshell and deposit it on the trail, along which she was slowly walking, her feet making a delicate crunching sound.

The New York Times - Arts

So if you have an exam question on paper, I take a picture of it and write an answer and then post a photo so people can see the model answer," says Neale.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

There is a real beauty to maths and I liked the certainty of science; you wrote an answer, drew a line under it and that was it.

Independent

He said: "Every time I turn on the radio, I hear this record – so I wrote an answer to it".

The Guardian - Music

TR: Yahoo Answers is unlike Wikipedia in the sense that once you've written an answer, other people can rebut it, but they can't rewrite it.

MIT Technology Review

One way I address this is to encourage students to think about writing an answer they don't personally agree with to write the "other" answer as an exercise in honing their ability to craft an argument.

University of California, Berkeley

He said: "Every time I turn on the radio, I hear this record – so I wrote an answer to it". My goodness, I was so impressed!

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "write an answer", be specific about the desired length, format, and content to ensure clarity and meet expectations.

Common error

Avoid simply telling someone to "write an answer" without providing context. Always specify what the answer should address, any constraints, and the required level of detail to guide the writer effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "write an answer" functions as a verb phrase that typically serves as an instruction or request. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to direct someone to provide a written response to a question or problem. It emphasizes the act of creating a written solution.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "write an answer" is a grammatically sound and commonly used verb phrase that instructs or requests a written response. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and broad applicability. It is most frequently encountered in academic and news contexts, maintaining a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the scope and requirements of the answer. Alternatives include "draft a response", "formulate a reply", and "compose an answer", each subtly altering the nuance. While straightforward, providing additional context and guiding the writer ensures the best outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

draft a response

Emphasizes the initial creation and formulation of the answer.

formulate a reply

Highlights the careful and structured construction of the answer.

compose an answer

Suggests a more elaborate and thoughtful approach to writing the answer.

prepare a response

Focuses on getting ready to provide the answer, rather than the act of writing itself.

provide a written response

Stresses the method of delivery (written form).

pen an answer

Uses a more formal or literary tone for "writing".

jot down an answer

Implies a quick and informal way of writing the answer.

put down an answer

Focuses on the physical act of recording the answer on paper.

record a response

Suggests capturing the answer in a more permanent or official way.

supply a written answer

Emphasizes the act of giving or furnishing the answer in written form.

FAQs

How can I use "write an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "write an answer" when instructing someone to provide a solution or response to a question. For example, "Please "write an answer" to the following question in complete sentences".

What are some alternatives to "write an answer"?

Alternatives include "draft a response", "formulate a reply", or "compose an answer", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "write to answer" instead of "write an answer"?

No, "write to answer" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrase is ""write an answer"", where "an" is the indefinite article preceding the noun "answer".

What's the difference between "write an answer" and "provide an answer"?

"Write an answer" specifically implies a written response, whereas "provide an answer" is more general and can refer to either a written or verbal response.