question
/ˈkwes.tʃən/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A question is a sentence or phrase used to ask for information or an answer. It can also be a problem or point that needs attention or discussion.
- I have a question about the homework.
- The main question is about cost.
- That is a serious question for the team.
verb
To question someone means to ask them questions. It can also mean to doubt if something is true, fair, or right.
- Police questioned the witness.
- She questioned his answer.
- We questioned the results carefully.
Adinary Nuance
Question is the broad, everyday word for asking and for a point people discuss. It is less formal than inquiry and less direct than interrogation. In speech, people usually say question when they want simple information or want to raise a doubt.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- câu hỏi
- Spanish
- pregunta
- Chinese
- 问题
- Japanese
- 質問
- Korean
- 질문
Etymology
From Latin quaestio, meaning “a seeking” or “an inquiry,” through Old French into English in the Middle Ages. The verb use developed later from the noun.
Common phrases
ask a questionraise a questionquestion and answerquestion mark
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between question and query?
- A question is more common and general. A query is often more formal or used in writing and customer service.
- Is question formal or informal?
- It is a common neutral word. You can use it in speech, school, and business writing.
- Can question mean doubt?
- Yes. You can question a fact, a decision, or a report when you are not fully sure about it.