question

/'kwestʃn/
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question

A student raises her hand to ask a question in class.

Definition
  1. Noun:

    • A sentence, phrase, or word that asks for information or tests knowledge: An interrogative expression seeking a reply.
    • A matter or problem that is open to debate, dispute, or discussion: An issue requiring consideration or resolution.
    • Doubt or uncertainty about something: A feeling or instance of skepticism.
  2. Verb:

    • To ask someone questions, especially in a formal or systematic way: To interrogate or interview.
    • To express doubt about; to challenge the truth or validity of something: To call something into question.
Usage
  • As a Noun: Used to refer to an inquiry, a topic for debate, or a state of doubt.
  • As a Verb: Used to describe the act of asking inquiries or expressing skepticism.
Examples
  • Noun:
    • She asked a direct question about the project deadline.
    • The question of climate change is a global concern.
    • His loyalty is beyond question.
  • Verb:
    • The detective will question the witness tomorrow.
    • We must question the assumptions behind this theory.
Advanced Usage
  • "To beg the question": To assume the truth of the very point being argued; a logical fallacy.
    • His argument about efficiency begs the question of how we define "productive work".
  • "To call into question": To raise doubts about something.
    • The new evidence calls into question the original verdict.
  • "A moot question": An issue that is debatable or of no practical significance.
    • Whether the meeting was necessary is now a moot question.
Variants and Related Words
  • Questionable (adj): Doubtful in terms of truth, quality, or propriety.
    • The company's accounting practices are highly questionable.
  • Questioner (n): A person who asks questions.
    • The speaker addressed the questioner directly.
  • Questionnaire (n): A written list of questions used for gathering information.
    • Please complete the customer satisfaction questionnaire.
Synonyms
  • Noun: Query, inquiry, issue, problem, doubt.
  • Verb: Ask, interrogate, query, challenge, doubt.
Phrasal Verbs
  • Question someone about something: To ask someone specific questions regarding a topic.
    • Reporters questioned the minister about the new policy.
  • Question someone on something: Similar to "question about," often used for tests or specific knowledge areas.
    • The panel questioned the candidate on her foreign policy experience.
Idioms
  • Out of the question: Impossible or not allowed.
    • A pay raise is out of the question this year.
  • In question: Being discussed or considered.
    • The document in question was signed last week.
  • Pop the question: To propose marriage (informal).
    • He finally popped the question during their vacation.
  • Without question: Definitely; without any doubt.
    • She is, without question, the best candidate for the job.
question

A student raises her hand to ask a question in class.

Noun
  1. an informal reference to a marriage proposal
    • he was ready to pop the question
  2. a formal proposal for action made to a deliberative assembly for discussion and vote
    • he made a motion to adjourn
    • she called for the question
  3. uncertainty about the truth or factuality or existence of something
    • the dubiousness of his claim
    • there is no question about the validity of the enterprise
  4. a sentence of inquiry that asks for a reply
    • he asked a direct question
    • he had trouble phrasing his interrogations
  5. the subject matter at issue
    • the question of disease merits serious discussion
    • under the head of minor Roman poets
  6. an instance of questioning
    • there was a question about my training
    • we made inquiries of all those who were present
Verb
  1. place in doubt or express doubtful speculation
    • I wonder whether this was the right thing to do
    • she wondered whether it would snow tonight
  2. conduct an interview in television, newspaper, and radio reporting
  3. pose a question
  4. pose a series of questions to
    • The suspect was questioned by the police
    • We questioned the survivor about the details of the explosion
  5. challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of
    • We must question your judgment in this matter