Definite question

USAGE SUMMARY

"definite question" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a question that has a clear and specific answer, rather than being open-ended or subjective. Example: "Can you tell me the exact date of the meeting?" This is a definite question because there is a specific answer - the date of the meeting.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I don't have a definite question for you.

The New Yorker

There were definite question marks about whether it was going to work.

The Guardian

"There is a definite question now of where Ferrari's future lies," says Wright.

Forbes

There's no question in my mind (although it may be a definite question in other minds) that the play is grand.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Their method was that of the sworn inquest, by which answers were given to a long list of definite questions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The point is that we are now in a position to write down a list of definite questions with the following features: First, the questions on this list will have answers independence is not an issue.

SEP

As the preceding sections should have made clear, there is ample evidence that biological research does not fit a Popperian image of science according to which "The theoretician puts certain definite questions to the experimenter, and the latter, by his experiments, tries to elicit a decisive answer to these questions, and to no others.

SEP

While the paper does not resolve the exact mechanism, but it leaves ground for exploring some definite questions regarding the static magnetic field guided modulations of cellular poalrization and DNA damage, one being linked to the energetics of the cells and the other linked to cell death.

Cancer Nanotechnology

They can't pull off the same populist tricks as normal candidates: eg, for one of them to show off his new baby this week would be a definite minus, no question about it.

The Guardian

It's difficult to find definite answers to questions about the species that predated modern humans, mainly because of a lack of skeletal evidence.

The Guardian

The evidence is against this, inasmuch as for Hippias, Prodicus, Gorgias, and Protagoras there are records of a definite interest in questions of this kind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite question" when you need to emphasize that the question requires a precise and unambiguous answer. Avoid using it interchangeably with 'general question' or 'open-ended question'.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "definite question" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "specific question" or "clear question" for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "definite" modifies the noun "question". It specifies the type of question being asked, indicating that it requires a precise and unambiguous answer. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "definite question" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an inquiry that requires a clear and specific answer. As highlighted by Ludwig, while grammatically sound, its frequency is relatively rare, and it tends to appear in neutral to formal contexts such as scientific papers, news articles, and encyclopedias. While not incorrect in informal settings, simpler alternatives like "specific question" might be more appropriate. Related phrases include "specific question" and "precise inquiry". When posing a question, make sure you consider its audience and choose a phrasing that suits the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Specific question

Replaces "definite" with "specific", maintaining the emphasis on clarity and precision.

Precise inquiry

Substitutes both words to emphasize accuracy and detail in the question.

Clear question

Focuses on the understandability of the question, using a more common adjective.

Unambiguous question

Highlights the lack of potential for misinterpretation in the question.

Well-defined question

Emphasizes that the question has been properly framed and is not vague.

Explicit question

Suggests that the question is stated directly and without any implied meaning.

Direct question

Highlights the straightforwardness of the question, avoiding indirectness.

Targeted question

Implies that the question is focused and addresses a specific issue.

Focused inquiry

Combines the idea of targeted questioning with a formal term for questioning.

Articulated question

Emphasizes the clarity and expressiveness with which the question is formulated.

FAQs

How can I use "definite question" in a sentence?

You can use "definite question" to describe an inquiry that requires a specific and clear answer. For example: "The researcher posed a "definite question" to the participants to gather precise data."

What can I say instead of "definite question"?

You can use alternatives like "specific question", "precise inquiry", or "clear question" depending on the context.

Is "definite question" the same as "rhetorical question"?

No, a "definite question" seeks a specific answer, whereas a rhetorical question is asked for effect and doesn't require an answer.

When is it appropriate to use the term "definite question"?

It's appropriate when discussing research methodologies, legal inquiries, or any situation where clarity and precision in questioning are essential.