WordGarden.ioanswer
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɑːnsə/
US
- /ˈænsər/
Meanings
Noun
a reply to a question, request, or message
the correct solution or response to a problem, puzzle, or test question
Verb
to reply to a question, message, or signal
to deal with, satisfy, or solve something
Beyond the definition
An answer is primarily the reply you give when someone asks a question. However, an "answer" isn't just words. It is often the solution to a problem, like finding the answer to a tricky math equation. As a verb, it describes responding to a signal—like answering the phone or answering a knock at the door. Whether a detective is searching for clues or a student is taking a test, they are both looking for an answer.
The word "answer" covers a broad range of scenarios, all revolving around a response or resolution. Its most fundamental role is a reply to a question. "What time is it?" – "Three o'clock." That is a direct answer.
Beyond conversation, an answer represents the solution to a problem or mystery. A scientist seeks the answer to a medical question, while an engineer finds the answer to a design flaw.
"Answer" also functions as a verb with specific nuances. You "answer" the door or the phone to respond to a summons. In a more serious tone, someone must "answer for" their actions, meaning they are held accountable. There is even a mechanical usage: a ship is said to "answer the helm" when it responds correctly to steering.
Figuratively, an answer is something that fulfills a dire need or desire. "The rain was the answer to the farmers' prayers."
From a simple "yes" or "no" to the resolution of a complex mystery, an answer always completes the interaction started by a question or event.
Examples
- 1
Classroom
She raised her hand to answer the teacher's question.
- 2
Door
I knocked twice, but nobody answered.
- 3
Phone call
Can you answer the phone while I finish this email?
- 4
Email
He still hasn't answered my email.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Spoken reply
"I'm not ready yet," Maya answered.
- 6
Correct response
I didn't know the answer, so I guessed.
- 7
Problem solving
There are no easy answers to this problem.
- 8
Best solution
Some people think money is the answer to every problem.
- Patternthe answer to + problem
the best solution for it
- 9
Responsibility
The manager will have to answer for the mistake.
- Patternanswer for + mistake/action
be responsible for it
- 10
Rude reply
Don't answer back when your father is talking to you.
- Phraseanswer back
reply rudely
- 11
Workplace authority
In this job, you answer to the sales director.
- Patternanswer to + person
be under that person's authority at work
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- answernounverb
Forms
- answerspluralnounverb
- answeredpast tenseverbnoun
- answering-ing formverbnoun