a clarifying question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a clarifying question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to ask for more information or clarification on a topic or statement. Example: "Before we proceed, I have a clarifying question regarding the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It is a clarifying question, and we already know the answer.

Independent

When someone responds that you could have done a better job of fine-tuning your job talk for the audience, ask a clarifying question.

Science Magazine

Let us say that one student is explaining how "water evaporates to become clouds (hand moves up, palm open)." This student's partner asks a clarifying question about evaporation and performs a similar gesture.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

Do you understand the difference between a logistical question and a clarifying question?

Huffington Post

Before deciding whether to bring her in for an interview, I reached out to the applicant with a clarifying question less than an hour after she applied.

Huffington Post

It will be in evidence every time she asks a clarifying question, challenges someone else's interpretation of the law, or has her own interpretations challenged by others.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

This is the clarifying question for me," she said.

The New York Times

Finally the student responds to the last clarifying question (rcl) and the teacher evaluates as K1.

Functional Linguistics

Post-hackathon, I had email conversations with the teams, and asked them a few clarifying questions.

TechCrunch

On the way home, my son asked me a couple clarifying questions, and I was struck both by how basic are the knowledge needs of tweens and by how casually I was able to answer him.

Huffington Post

She then initiates an exchange with a dK1 question that the student does not answer or answers too quietly, as she asks a series of clarifying questions (cl).

Functional Linguistics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a clarifying question" when you need more details or have doubts about something that has been communicated.

Common error

Avoid phrasing "a clarifying question" as a leading question, which implies a desired answer. A clarifying question should genuinely seek understanding, not subtly guide the response.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a clarifying question" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the type of question being asked. It indicates that the purpose of the question is to seek clarification or further understanding. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a clarifying question" is a grammatically sound and useful way to describe a question intended to seek further explanation or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. It's frequently used in news, media, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure your questions are specific and aimed at genuinely resolving ambiguity, rather than leading the respondent. Alternatives such as "a probing inquiry" or "a question for clarification" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question for clarification

This is a more formal and direct way of asking for clarity.

a question to understand better

Emphasizes the purpose of gaining a deeper comprehension.

a question seeking clarity

This alternative highlights the intent behind the question.

a follow-up question

This phrase is used when seeking further information based on a previous answer or statement.

an explanatory question

Suggests that the question aims to elicit an explanation.

an elucidating query

This option emphasizes the goal of bringing clarity and understanding to the subject matter.

a request for details

Highlights the need for more specific information to resolve ambiguity.

a probing inquiry

This alternative suggests a more in-depth and investigative approach to seeking clarification.

a detailed inquiry

This phrase suggests a need for more specific and thorough information.

a precise question

Focuses on the accuracy of the answer you are looking for.

FAQs

How do I use "a clarifying question" in a sentence?

You can use "a clarifying question" when you need to understand something better. For example: "Before we move on, I have "a clarifying question" about the budget."

What's the difference between "a clarifying question" and "a follow-up question"?

"A clarifying question" aims to make something more understandable, while "a follow-up question" seeks more information based on a previous answer. They are related but serve slightly different purposes.

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

You can use alternatives like "a probing inquiry", "a question for clarification", or "an elucidating query" depending on the context.

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

It's appropriate to ask "a clarifying question" whenever you encounter ambiguity, uncertainty, or a lack of detail in a statement or explanation. Asking "a clarifying question" ensures better understanding and prevents misunderstandings.