short-answer
Meaning
Denoting a type of test or examination question that requires an answer of a few words or a short sentence, as opposed to a long essay or multiple choice.
Structure
Usage
The exam consisted of ten short-answer questions and one essay.
Please complete the short-answer section before moving on to the multiple-choice part.
She prefers short-answer tests because they test specific knowledge rather than writing skill.
Etymology
The compound "short-answer" is a modern English formation, combining two native Germanic roots to create a specific technical term in educational assessment. The word "short" originates from Proto-Germanic skurtaz, conveying the concept of brevity or lack of length. "Answer" derives from Old English andswaru, itself from and- (against) and swaru (affirmation), literally meaning a "sworn statement against" an accusation or question. The compound's logic is transparent: it literally describes a "brief reply," which evolved into its specialized academic sense for a concise, written response to a specific prompt, contrasting with longer essay formats.
Analysis
- short: From Old English sceort, meaning "not long, brief." Its functional role is as an adjective modifying the noun. - answer: From Old English andswaru, meaning "a reply, a response." Its functional role is as the head noun in this compound word.