Face this question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Face this question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when prompting someone to confront or consider a specific question or issue directly. Example: "In order to move forward, we must face this question: what are our priorities for the upcoming project?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

We'll face this question even in death.

MIT Technology Review

Lots of countries are going to face this question.

Stanford University

If you're ready to face this question, this book can help you change your life.

Harvard Business Review

In a different world, Noel wouldn't have to face this question; he'd already be in the pros, getting paid millions.

The New Yorker

New ventures face this question early on, whether they are housed inside big corporations or small start-ups.

Harvard Business Review

You're seriously saying that to me with a straight face?" (This question can be repeated as often as necessary).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Recently I put my home up for sale, and because it needed a new roof, deck, and septic system, came face to face with this question.

Huffington Post

Facing this question is, oddly enough, progress.

The New York Times

Thank you, Sarah ATUL GAWANDE: Faced this question with my father recently.

The New Yorker

Piotr Voelkel, the founder and chairman of Vox, faced this question.

Harvard Business Review

Jordan Liss, a sophomore at the University of Michigan, faced this question each time he took the ACT, which was five times.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Face this question" when you want to directly encourage someone to confront a specific issue or dilemma. It implies a need for honest and forthright consideration.

Common error

Ensure that the subject actively faces the question, rather than the question being passively received. For example, prefer "We must face this question" over "This question must be faced by us."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Face this question" functions as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to confront and consider a specific issue directly. As shown in Ludwig's examples, it's often used to introduce a critical point needing immediate attention.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Face this question" is a grammatically sound and usable expression in English, primarily functioning as an imperative to urge direct consideration of a specific issue. According to Ludwig, while not extremely common, its usage is found across various reputable sources like The New York Times and Harvard University. It’s most frequently used in news and academic contexts, implying a need for forthright engagement. When using this phrase, ensure active voice to maintain clarity and impact. Alternatives such as ""confront this issue"" or ""address this matter"" offer nuanced ways to express a similar sentiment, depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Confront this issue

Replaces "question" with "issue", focusing on a broader concern.

Consider this query

Replaces "face" with "consider", which soften the imperative tone

Address this matter

Substitutes "face" with "address" and "question" with "matter", indicating a more formal approach to dealing with something.

Deliberate on this point

Suggests a careful and thorough consideration of the question.

Grapple with this problem

Emphasizes the struggle involved in dealing with a difficult question or issue.

Tackle this subject

Suggests a proactive approach to dealing with a topic or question.

Acknowledge this concern

Shifts the focus to recognizing the importance of the question or issue.

Resolve this matter

Indicates the user wants to find a solution for something instead of just 'facing' it.

Come to terms with this inquiry

Indicates the process of accepting or understanding a difficult or challenging question.

Ponder this enigma

Adds a sense of mystery or complexity to the question.

FAQs

How can I use "Face this question" in a sentence?

You can use "Face this question" to urge direct consideration of a matter, as in, "Before moving forward, we must face this question: what are our priorities?"

What are some alternatives to "Face this question"?

Alternatives include "confront this issue", "address this matter", or "grapple with this problem" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "Face this question" or "Address this question"?

Both phrases are correct, but "address this question" might sound slightly more formal and professional, while "Face this question" emphasizes directness.

When is it appropriate to use "Face this question"?

It's suitable when you want to emphasize the need to confront a significant issue directly and honestly, particularly when it's challenging or uncomfortable to do so.