WordLens

answer for

1 of 1verb
/ˈænsər fɔr/
Forms:answers for,answering for,answered for,answered for
1

to explain one's actions or decisions, especially when questioned or challenged

  • The CEO had to answer for the company's poor financial performance during the shareholders' meeting.
  • When questioned by the press, the spokesperson had to answer for the government's new tax policy.
  • The defendant was asked to answer for their actions in court and provide reasons for their behavior.
  • She had to answer for her role in the project's failure and provide a detailed explanation.
  • He had to answer for his choice of investments when his business partners raised concerns.
Synonyms:
account
2

to face consequences or punishment for one's actions

  • If you break the rules, you'll have to answer for it by paying a fine.
  • The company had to answer for its unethical practices, resulting in fines and penalties.
  • She knew that she would have to answer for breaking the rules and was prepared for the repercussions.
  • The employee had to answer for his mistakes, leading to a temporary suspension.
  • In a court of law, individuals are expected to answer for their crimes and face appropriate penalties.
3

to be used as a replacement or representation of something

  • In the absence of the required tool, a wrench can often answer for a makeshift hammer.
  • This temporary structure will answer for our meeting place until the new office is ready.
  • When the original painting is unavailable, a high-quality print can answer for the artwork.
  • A digital signature can often answer for a handwritten signature in online contracts.
4

to explain someone else's thoughts or opinions on a matter

  • As the spokesperson for the organization, he had to answer for the CEO's perspective on the matter.
  • She was asked to answer for her team's stance on the proposed changes during the meeting.
  • In her role as a representative, she often has to answer for the community's concerns and needs.
  • During the panel discussion, Mary had to answer for her team's stance on the controversial issue, as they couldn't be present at the event.