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

The answer for many is more solar and wind power plus electric vehicles—even if that means more dependence on a single country.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

They had the same answer for the 6-7 Skenes, who turned out pretty good.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

There’s no easy answer for you or any of the millions of people in your position who have been moved from Social Security from disability benefits.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 9, 2026

Kelly: I was trying to second guess your answer for this, but I think it's impossible.

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2026

Miss Mortimer had no answer for that, and turned to Penelope.

From "The Interrupted Tale" by Maryrose Wood