He answered (the question) 'in the affirmative'. [=he said “yes”]
She gave an 'affirmative' answer, not a negative answer.
She answered (the question) 'affirmatively'.
(..) and the treaty is signed. Good work. What about that position you promised me in Men in Black? Still working on the alien affirmative action program. That's not what you promised me. - You're breaking up. -Zed? Hello? - I'll call you back. -I could be Agent Em. Zed, you... (..)2002 Men in Black II