question-stop

Definition

Noun: A "question-stop" is a punctuation mark (?) used at the end of a sentence to indicate a direct question. It is also known as a question mark.

Usage Examples

• (The punctuation mark indicating a query.)
• (The symbol for a question.)

Advanced Usage

• "to put a question-stop on something": to finalize or conclude a matter with a questioning tone, though this is rare and informal.
  • He put a question-stop on the debate by asking for a vote. (He concluded with a questioning action.)

Variants and Related Words

• Question mark (n): a more common synonym for "question-stop."

  • The question mark is used to end direct questions. (The punctuation symbol.)

• Interrogation point (n): an older or formal term for the same punctuation mark.

  • The interrogation point indicates a query. (Another name for the question mark.)

Synonyms

• Question mark: the standard term for the punctuation symbol (?).
• Interrogation point: a formal or historical synonym.

Related Idioms

• "Question mark over something": to indicate uncertainty or doubt about a situation.

  • There is a question mark over his future at the company. (Uncertainty about his employment.)

• "Put a question mark on": to cast doubt on something.

  • The new evidence puts a question mark on the earlier conclusion. (Creates uncertainty.)