answer to

Idioms  

1. 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

"Sometimes there are questions she's asking -- about what if this happens -- that I don't have any answers to" -- because no one actually has the answer to such questions, she said.

From Barron's

The “select few billionaires” looking to leave will eventually have to answer to California tax officials, said Suzanne Jimenez, chief of staff of the healthcare workers union behind the proposal.

From The Wall Street Journal

Even so, you’d have to be dense to take his answer to Ms. Heinrich as a decision not to run.

From The Wall Street Journal

Coach Sean McVay has already led the Rams to a championship, and with his experience in these moments I think they will find an answer to shutting down Darnold.

From BBC

Part odd-couple, part heartbreaking romance and part thriller, "Tuner" was the answer to the question: "Now what?" after Roher scooped Hollywood's biggest prize in 2023, the director said.

From Barron's