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.

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