a broad question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a broad question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is general or wide-ranging in scope, often requiring a more extensive or open-ended response. Example: "The professor posed a broad question about the implications of climate change on global economies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

It is rather a broad question I know.

The New York Times - Food

That is not many studies if your goal is to answer a broad question about the efficacy of antidepressants as a class.

The New York Times - Health

Comcast had asked the justices to address a broad question about how to apply the Wal-Mart decision in other settings.

The New York Times

Let's start with a broad question: what would you call the "Golden Age" of rap? Rakim The golden age was when people were starting to understand what hip-hop was and how to use it.

The Guardian - Music

Forbes: I’ll ask a broad question.

Forbes

GZ: That's a broad question.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Namely, it successfully dispels the misguided notions underlying hyperadaptationism and genetic determinism; it permits for the reconciliation of genetic and cultural concerns under the umbrella of gene culture coevolution; and it inclines students toward a broad question-based approach to research that transcends disciplinary boundaries.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

It also raises a broader question.

The Guardian - Sport

THIS then leads to a broader question.

The New York Times

A broader question lurks as well.

The New York Times

However, there is a broader question, surely.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a broad question", ensure that the context provides enough information for the audience to understand the general subject area being addressed. This helps to avoid confusion and provides a framework for potential answers.

Common error

Avoid posing a question so broad that it lacks direction and fails to elicit meaningful responses. Even a broad question should have some degree of focus to guide the discussion or inquiry.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a broad question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a question that covers a wide area or topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a broad question" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce an inquiry that covers a wide range of topics. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. As demonstrated by the examples found using Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, often serving to initiate discussions or explore general concepts. While it's versatile enough for neutral settings, clarity is crucial to avoid excessive vagueness. Alternatives like "a general inquiry" or "a wide-ranging question" can add subtle nuances to the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a general inquiry

Emphasizes the lack of specific focus in the question.

a wide-ranging question

Highlights the extensive scope covered by the question.

an expansive question

Stresses the comprehensive nature of the question.

a comprehensive question

Focuses on the thoroughness the question aims to achieve.

an overarching question

Suggests a question that encompasses many aspects.

a sweeping question

Indicates a question covering a large area or subject.

a far-reaching question

Emphasizes the potentially extensive consequences or implications of the question.

a large question

Highlights the size or complexity of the issue being questioned.

a general topic

Shifts the focus from the question itself to the broader subject matter.

an open-ended question

Focuses on the type of response expected, rather than the scope of the question itself.

FAQs

How do you introduce "a broad question" in a conversation?

You can preface it with phrases like "Let's start with "a broad question"" or "To begin, I'd like to pose "a broad question" about...".

What is the difference between "a broad question" and "a specific question"?

A broad question covers a wide range of topics and seeks general understanding, while a specific question focuses on a particular detail and seeks precise information.

When is it appropriate to ask "a broad question"?

It's appropriate to ask "a broad question" when initiating a discussion, exploring a new subject, or seeking a general overview of a complex issue.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a broad question"?

Alternatives include "a general inquiry", "a wide-ranging question", or "an expansive question", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.