a big question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a big question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used as a way of indicating that something is an important or complex issue that requires careful consideration. For example, "The impact of climate change on our environment is a big question that we all need to think about carefully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a big question.

The New York Times

That's a big question.

Forbes

"It's a big question mark.

The New York Times

But it's a big question mark".

The New York Times

"It's a big question," he said.

The New York Times

A big question: How to replace them?

The New York Times

"That is a big question mark.

The New York Times

A big question is whether they will.

The New York Times

"That's a big question to ask".

The New York Times

And that remains a big question.

The New York Times

"That's a big question," Dr. Meyer said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a big question" to introduce a topic that requires considerable thought and may not have a simple answer. It signals the importance of the issue being discussed.

Common error

While "a big question" is acceptable, avoid using it repeatedly in close proximity. Opt for synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement. Consider alternatives such as "a key issue" or "a central problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a big question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It introduces a topic that necessitates considerable thought and possibly lacks a straightforward resolution, as seen in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a big question" is a frequently used phrase to introduce complex and significant issues. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, consider synonyms to avoid repetition. Its function is to highlight complexity, its purpose is to prompt analysis, and its register is generally neutral. Use this phrase to signal the importance of a topic and invite deeper consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a major question

Replaces "big" with "major", emphasizing the importance or scale of the question.

a critical question

Substitutes "big" with "critical", highlighting the decisive or crucial nature of the question.

a significant question

Uses "significant" instead of "big", denoting the importance or consequence of the question.

a key question

Replaces "big" with "key", indicating the question is essential or fundamental.

an important question

Similar meaning, simply replaces "big" with "important".

a pressing question

Highlights the urgency or immediacy of the question.

a central question

Emphasizes the question's role as a focal point.

a fundamental question

Highlights the question's foundational nature.

a thorny question

Implies the question is complex and difficult to resolve.

a complex question

Indicates the multifaceted and intricate nature of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a big question" to introduce a significant or complex issue that needs careful consideration. For example, "The future of renewable energy is "a big question" for policymakers".

What can I say instead of "a big question"?

You can use alternatives like "a major question", "a critical question", or "an important question" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a big question"?

It's appropriate to use ""a big question"" when introducing a topic or problem that is complex, significant, and requires thorough analysis and discussion.

What's the difference between "a big question" and "a simple question"?

"A big question" implies complexity and requires in-depth thought, while "a simple question" suggests a straightforward answer and minimal analysis.