What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonanswer
Example
The politician gave a nonanswer when asked about their stance on healthcare reform. [nonanswer: noun]
Example
She nonanswered the question by talking about an unrelated topic. [nonanswered: verb]
sidestep
Example
He sidestepped the question by bringing up a different topic. [sidestepped: verb]
Example
The CEO used a sidestep to avoid discussing the company's financial troubles. [sidestep: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sidestep is more commonly used than nonanswer in everyday language. Sidestep is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while nonanswer is less common and may be seen as a technical term used in specific fields such as journalism or politics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nonanswer and sidestep?
Both nonanswer and sidestep are informal words that are typically used in casual conversations. However, nonanswer may be seen as more formal due to its association with journalism and politics.
