A question of degree

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A question of degree" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the varying levels or extents of a particular issue or concept, indicating that the matter is not absolute but rather exists on a spectrum. Example: "Whether the policy is effective is really a question of degree, depending on how we measure success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

It's just a question of degree.

Harvard Business Review

But it's a question of degree.

The Guardian

"But for us it is a question of degree.

The Guardian

A. O.K., remember, this is a question of degree.

The New York Times

Australia will be more solid by then, but it is a question of degree.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a question of degree, but the same issues are there in every city".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

But this is a question of degrees.

Independent

But it's not a question of degrees of ability, of who was the greater dancer.

The Guardian - Books

By contrast, war today seems more a question of degrees and limits, while equality seems less about the laws of the land than about disparities in economic and educational opportunities that are subtler and harder to address.

The New York Times

Simone insisted that the imbalance is shown by the fact that it took Atlético 70 minutes to see off Elche while it took Barcelona 10; he is right, but while the game remains 90 minutes long that may be a question of degrees, not final outcome.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a question of degrees.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "A question of degree" to emphasize that differences are incremental rather than absolute. This is particularly useful when discussing subjective evaluations or matters of opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "A question of degree" when the difference is qualitative rather than quantitative. If the distinction is fundamental, a different phrase is more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "A question of degree" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a difference or distinction is one of extent or intensity rather than an absolute difference in kind. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

24%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "A question of degree" is a versatile phrase used to express that differences are incremental rather than absolute. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and its frequency is common across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. When writing, use this phrase to emphasize nuanced distinctions and avoid overstating differences as fundamental. Alternatives like "a matter of extent" and "a matter of scale" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A matter of extent

Focuses on the scale or scope of something.

A matter of intensity

Highlights the strength or force of something.

A matter of scale

Emphasizes the relative size or magnitude.

A question of gradation

Underscores the gradual change or progression.

A matter of proportion

Stresses the balance or ratio involved.

A question of magnitude

Focuses on the size or importance.

A question of variation

Highlights the differences or changes.

A matter of level

Refers to a specific point on a scale or hierarchy.

A matter of range

Emphasizes the scope or extent.

A matter of shade

Highlights subtle differences or nuances.

FAQs

How can I use "A question of degree" in a sentence?

Use "A question of degree" to indicate that differences are not absolute but exist on a spectrum. For example, "The effectiveness of the policy is "a question of degree", depending on how we measure success."

What are some alternatives to "A question of degree"?

You can use phrases like "a matter of extent", "a matter of intensity", or "a matter of scale" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "It's all a question of degree"?

Yes, "It's all "a question of degree"" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that the difference lies in the amount or intensity, not in the fundamental nature.

What's the difference between "A question of degree" and "A matter of principle"?

"A question of degree" implies that the distinction is quantitative, while "A matter of principle" suggests that the issue involves a fundamental belief or value.