Definition

A response that does not provide any useful information or clarity, often being vague or evasive.

Example

When asked about the project, his reply was a nonanswer that left everyone confused.

Conversation

Did you get a response from the team about the project proposal?

Not really, just a nonanswer that didn't give me any clarity.

That sounds frustrating; I hate when they do that.

Yeah, it's like they don't even want to address the issues.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonanswer → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "answer" (from Old English "andswaru", meaning a response or reply). The word "nonanswer" means a lack of response or a reply that is not given.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') combined with 'response' ('answer') to remember that a nonanswer means there is no reply.

Visually Confused Words