answer to

Idioms and Phrases

Explain or justify something to someone, as in If Mary doesn't help us finish this project, she'll have to answer to the boss . This expression was at first used mainly for replying to legal charges. [c. a.d. 950]

Example Sentences

I have a letter from him which I am going to answer to-night.

From Project Gutenberg

I see that you would rather not answer to-day, Miss Sharp—you might prefer to go now and think about it?

From Project Gutenberg

"I will consider it, and give you an answer to-morrow morning," replied Captain Chantor.

From Project Gutenberg

Yours of to-day just this moment received, and the Secretary having left it is impossible for me to answer to-day.

From Project Gutenberg

The whole of the questions in them I cannot answer to-night, but will do so presently, when I obtain the full information.

From Project Gutenberg