Raises a question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Raises a question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or statement that prompts inquiry or further thought. Example: "The recent findings in the study raises a question about the validity of previous research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Which raises a question.

The New Yorker

That raises a question.

The New York Times

But this raises a question.

The Economist

This raises a question for me.

The Guardian - Books

"Usually, some eagle eye raises a question".

The New York Times

Q -- Well, that raises a question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

But the Elektra case raises a question-mark.

The Economist

In so doing, they raise a question.

Independent

But that also raised a question.

The New York Times - Tech

He may raise a question or two.

The New York Times

Such policies raise a question.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Raises a question" to smoothly introduce a query that arises naturally from the context of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "Raises a question" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing; opt for more conversational alternatives like "Makes you wonder" or "Gets you thinking".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Raises a question" functions as a transitional device, introducing an inquiry that logically follows from the preceding statement. It directs the reader or listener's attention to a point of uncertainty or a need for further exploration. Ludwig confirms the acceptability and wide usage of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Raises a question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase for introducing inquiries. According to Ludwig, its acceptability is confirmed by numerous real-world examples across diverse sources. It is most commonly found in news, science, and academic contexts, signaling its utility in both formal and neutral settings. While versatile, avoid overusing it in very informal conversations. Alternatives like "poses a question" or "brings up a question" can provide nuanced variations. By understanding its proper usage and available alternatives, you can effectively and precisely introduce questions in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Poses a question

Uses "poses" instead of "raises", offering a slightly more formal tone.

Prompts the question

Emphasizes the act of initiating the inquiry.

Leads to the question

Highlights the sequential nature of the inquiry.

Brings up a question

More informal than "raises a question".

Gives rise to a question

Suggests the question emerges naturally from preceding information.

Invites the question

Implies a deliberate attempt to provoke inquiry.

Suggests a question

Implies that a question comes to mind.

Calls into question

Focuses on doubting or challenging something.

Raises concerns about

Highlights the potential worries or doubts associated with something.

Implies an inquiry

Emphasizes the act of asking or requesting information.

FAQs

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

You can use "Raises a question" to introduce an inquiry that naturally follows from the context. For example, "The study's findings "raises a question" about the effectiveness of the current treatment."

What are some alternatives to "Raises a question"?

Alternatives include "poses a question", "prompts the question", or "brings up a question", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is "Raises a question" formal or informal?

"Raises a question" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as academic papers, news articles, and business reports. However, it might sound slightly stiff in very informal conversations.

What's the difference between "Raises a question" and "Calls into question"?

"Raises a question" introduces an inquiry or prompts further thought, while "calls into question" implies doubting or challenging something. The former is neutral, while the latter is more critical.