a complex question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a complex question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that has multiple layers or requires deep thought to answer. Example: "The professor posed a complex question that sparked a lively debate among the students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What a complex question complexity is!

European Journal of Futures Research

JULIA IOFFE: This is a complex question.

The New Yorker

It is a complex question.

The Guardian

"It's a complex question," Ms. Newman said.

The New York Times

'Oh,that's a complex question,' he replies.

The Guardian - Film

How much to change is a complex question.

The New York Times - Sports

That's a complex question that deserves a separate blog post.

The New York Times

It's a complex question, but the simple answer is no.

The New Yorker

Whether aggressor and victim are the same is a complex question.

The New York Times - Arts

Who is using whom turns out to be a complex question.

The New York Times

Look that's a complex question and I'm not going to give a soundbite answer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a complex question", provide context or background information to help the audience understand the different layers of the issue. This sets the stage for a more thoughtful discussion.

Common error

Avoid immediately jumping to a simplified answer when facing "a complex question". Instead, acknowledge the multiple facets and potential nuances before offering a solution or opinion. This demonstrates critical thinking and respect for the subject matter.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a complex question" functions as a noun phrase, where "complex" modifies the noun "question". As evidenced by Ludwig, it typically serves to introduce a topic that requires thoughtful consideration and has no easy resolution. It is often used to set the stage for a deeper analysis or discussion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a complex question" is a frequently used phrase that introduces topics requiring thoughtful consideration and detailed analysis. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its prevalence across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Scientific domains. It signals the presence of multifaceted issues, inviting nuanced understanding rather than simple answers. When using this phrase, provide context to guide the audience through the issue's different layers, and avoid oversimplification, offering thoughtful considerations to acknowledge its many facets.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complicated question

Substitutes 'complex' with 'complicated', which is a direct synonym, implying difficulty in understanding.

a convoluted question

Replaces 'complex' with 'convoluted', emphasizing the intricate and confusing nature of the question.

a challenging question

Uses 'challenging' to indicate that the question requires significant effort to address.

a multifaceted question

Uses 'multifaceted' to highlight that the question has many aspects to consider.

a difficult question to answer

Adds 'to answer' to emphasize the challenge in providing a response.

an intricate question

Substitutes "complex" with "intricate" emphasizing the delicate or elaborate elements of the matter.

a thorny question

Replaces 'complex' with 'thorny', suggesting the question is difficult and potentially unpleasant to deal with.

a puzzling question

Replaces "complex" with "puzzling" thus underlining how bewildering is the question.

a probing question

Implies that the question aims to uncover deeper or hidden information.

a vexing question

Uses "vexing" to express that the question is annoying and intricate.

FAQs

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

You can use "a complex question" to introduce a topic that requires careful consideration and has multiple layers. For example, "The issue of climate change presents "a complex question" regarding international cooperation and economic policy."

What are some alternatives to saying "a complex question"?

Some alternatives include "a complicated question", "a multifaceted question", or "a challenging question". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to describe something as "a difficult question" or "a complex question"?

While both terms indicate a challenge, "a difficult question" emphasizes the effort required to find an answer, whereas "a complex question" highlights the intricate nature of the issue itself. Use "a difficult question" when the main challenge is in finding the answer, and "a complex question" when the issue has many interconnected parts.

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

It's appropriate to use "a complex question" when the issue at hand involves multiple factors, requires in-depth analysis, and doesn't have a simple or straightforward answer. It is particularly suitable in academic, professional, or news-related contexts where nuanced understanding is valued.