a courteous question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a courteous question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a question that is polite or respectful in nature. Example: "During the meeting, she asked a courteous question about the project's timeline, showing her consideration for the team's efforts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

After you've responded, it's smart to check that you met the asker's expectations with this is a simple, courteous question.

Harvard Business Review

For Manchester United what was supposed to be a triumphant beginning to their tour of Asia – training in front of 20,000 supporters, autograph sessions and courteous questions asked by fans, all of whom appeared to have bought club shirts – dissolved into chaos the moment the bombs struck in Jakarta.

Independent

Jacobson, who won in 2010 with The Finkler Question, maintains a courteous silence now.

The Guardian - Books

Because when someone knows they are being invited, in a courteous way, to talk about themselves, they answer questions differently and they reveal other stuff.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The asker will appreciate a courteous, timely reply more than one that arrives several days after the question was asked or one that seems condescending or like you feel really put out by answering the question.

WikiHow

He left a courteous tip.

The New Yorker

There was a courteous little chat.

The New York Times

Ines was a courteous and shamefast woman.

The New Yorker

But it was a courteous occasion.

Independent

He always refused, though with a courteous smile.

The Economist

"I told him he would get a courteous welcome.

The Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking information, frame your questions as "a courteous question" to foster a positive and cooperative environment.

Common error

Avoid using "a courteous question" as a means to mask passive-aggressive inquiries or to avoid directly addressing a problem. True courtesy aims for clarity and respect, not veiled criticism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a courteous question" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "question". It describes the type of question being asked, emphasizing its polite and respectful nature. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase highlights the manner in which the question is posed.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a courteous question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe inquiries that are polite and respectful. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, there are limited examples available to determine frequency. Its primary function is to convey consideration and foster positive communication. Related phrases include "a polite question" and "a respectful inquiry". When using this phrase, ensure that courtesy is genuine and not a mask for indirect criticism. Be mindful of the situation and consider whether directness might be more appropriate. The phrase is generally neutral to professional and best used in situations where respectful communication is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a polite question

Replaces "courteous" with "polite", emphasizing general good manners.

a respectful inquiry

Substitutes "question" with "inquiry" and "courteous" with "respectful", highlighting deference.

a civil question

Uses "civil" instead of "courteous", suggesting a basic level of politeness and decorum.

a well-mannered question

Replaces "courteous" with "well-mannered", emphasizing good etiquette.

a gracious question

Uses "gracious" instead of "courteous", suggesting elegance and kindness.

a considerate question

Replaces "courteous" with "considerate", focusing on the thoughtfulness behind the question.

a tactful question

Uses "tactful" instead of "courteous", implying sensitivity and awareness of potential offense.

a diplomatic question

Replaces "courteous" with "diplomatic", suggesting skill in handling sensitive issues.

an obliging question

Uses "obliging" instead of "courteous", suggesting a willingness to help or accommodate.

a gentle question

Replaces "courteous" with "gentle", emphasizing mildness and lack of aggression.

FAQs

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

You can use "a courteous question" to describe inquiries that are polite and respectful, such as, "She posed "a courteous question" about the project's timeline" or "He started the conversation with "a courteous question" about my well-being".

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

Alternatives to "a courteous question" include "a polite question", "a respectful inquiry", or "a civil question", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to ask "a courteous question"?

While being courteous is generally advisable, there are situations where directness is more appropriate. Consider your audience and the context to determine whether "a courteous question" or a more straightforward approach is best.

What distinguishes "a courteous question" from a demanding one?

The distinction lies in the tone and intent. "A courteous question" shows respect and consideration for the other person, while a demanding question often implies entitlement or impatience.