answer for (someone)

1 of 2

phrase (1)

: to say what someone else thinks : to give the opinion of (someone else)

I like the proposal myself, but I can't answer for my boss.

answer for (something)

2 of 2

phrase (2)

1

: to take responsibility for (something)

I can't answer for their safety.

The company will have to answer for any damage done by its employees.

2

: to be punished for (something)

He must answer for his crimes.

3

US : to be used or serve as (something)

The old bucket answered for a sink.