answer for

British  

verb

1. to be liable or responsible for (a person's actions, behaviour, etc)

2. to vouch for or speak on behalf of (a person)

3. to suffer or atone for (one's wrongdoing)

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answer for Idioms  

1. Take responsibility for, take charge of, as in The new alarm system has to answer for the security of the grounds . [Late 1200s]

2. Take the blame for, as in The kids who were caught shoplifting have a lot to answer for . [c. 1200]

3. To vouch for or sponsor someone, as in I'll answer for John as a reliable employee . [Early 1700s]

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Example Sentences

“A lot of people love her and also don’t think that she is the answer for 2028,” the fundraiser said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 10, 2026

There is no easy answer for the industry, one reason why stocks of airlines and aerospace companies have struggled.

From Barron's • May 4, 2026

The new franchise across the pond, “Saturday Night Live UK,” initially looked as though it might be an answer for fatigued viewers looking for a refresh, but even that show has stumbled.

From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026

But Moore says his boss "always had an answer for everything".

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

But Nok didn't have an answer for it.

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat