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

Conners said hybrid long-term-care policies may be an answer for some clients who are now in their 40s, 50s and 60s to help protect against future care costs.

From MarketWatch • May 19, 2026

But for me, it’s a way to get them in the room and answer for what they’re doing.

From Slate • May 19, 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

Redick then gave a simple answer for how the Lakers have to deal with the Rockets in the best-of-seven series.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

Llewelyn looked out the window and didn’t answer for a long time.

From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova