What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
respond
Example
I will respond to your email as soon as possible. [respond: verb]
Example
The company responded to the crisis by implementing new safety measures. [responded: past tense]
answer
Example
Can you answer this question for me? [answer: verb]
Example
The answer to the math problem is 42. [answer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Answer is more commonly used than respond in everyday language, especially in the context of answering a question or providing a solution. Respond is often used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between respond and answer?
Answer is generally considered more formal than respond. While answer can be used in both formal and informal contexts, respond is often used in more formal or professional settings.