Meaning
To provide a response to an inquiry.
Cultural Background
In US classrooms, students are often encouraged to 'answer the question' even if they are unsure, as participation is valued. In formal British settings, 'answering a question' might involve a polite preamble like 'That's a very good point'. In Japan, answering a question directly in a group setting might be avoided to prevent conflict.
Transitive Verb
Always treat 'answer' as a transitive verb. It wants an object immediately.
No Prepositions
Never put 'to', 'at', or 'for' after 'answer' when it is a verb.
Meaning
To provide a response to an inquiry.
Transitive Verb
Always treat 'answer' as a transitive verb. It wants an object immediately.
No Prepositions
Never put 'to', 'at', or 'for' after 'answer' when it is a verb.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct sentence.
Which is correct?
Answer is transitive; no preposition needed.
Fill in the blank.
Can you _____ the question?
The base form is needed after 'can'.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Why are you silent? B: I don't know how to _____.
Direct object usage is correct.
Match the verb to the object.
Match 'answer' with its object.
Questions are answered.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWhich is correct?
Answer is transitive; no preposition needed.
Can you _____ the question?
The base form is needed after 'can'.
A: Why are you silent? B: I don't know how to _____.
Direct object usage is correct.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Questions are answered.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsNo, that is grammatically incorrect. Use 'answer the question'.
It can be both. 'I have an answer' (noun) vs 'I will answer' (verb).
They are similar, but 'reply' needs 'to'.
It is neutral and used everywhere.
You don't! It is silent.
Yes, it is perfect for professional emails.
You can say 'I cannot answer the question'.
Yes, it is one of the most common collocations in English.
Related Phrases
Ask a question
contrastTo inquire.
Provide an answer
synonymTo give a response.
Respond to a query
synonymTo reply.
