give an answer

Meaning

This phrase means to respond to a question, test, or inquiry by providing information. It is commonly used in classrooms, exams, and discussions when a teacher asks students to participate or when solving a problem. It can be spoken or written.

Examples

• If you know the question, please raise your hand to give an answer.

  If you know the question, please raise your hand to give an answer.

• The student was too nervous to give an answer in front of the class.

  The student was too nervous to give an answer in front of the class.

• You must give an answer to every question on the exam paper.

  You must give an answer to every question on the exam paper.

• Can anyone give an answer to the math problem on the board?

  Can anyone give an answer to the math problem on the board?

• He took a moment to think before he could give an answer.

  He took a moment to think before he could give an answer.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Please make an answer to my question.

  ✓ Please give an answer to my question.

  English uses the verb 'give' or 'provide' with 'answer', not 'make'.

• ✗ He couldn't give a reply answer.

  ✓ He couldn't give an answer.

  'Reply' and 'answer' are redundant when used together. Use one or the other.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The teacher asked a difficult question, but no one could ___.

  💡 Provide a response.

  Show answer

  give an answer

• Please think carefully before you ___ to this question.

  💡 Use the verb 'give'.

  Show answer

  give an answer