a deep question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deep question" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe a question that has layers of meaning beneath the surface or takes more time and thought to answer. For example: "The professor asked us a deep question about the philosophy of human nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

It is a deep question.

The New York Times

"That's a deep question.

The Guardian - Sport

DAVID BROOKS: That's a deep question.

The New Yorker

(O.K., so it's not a deep question, just a timeless one).

The New York Times - Sports

"That is a deep question," he told Mr. Stewart, "and I don't totally know".

The New York Times

And then New York, which represented — well, what New York represented for Howells is a deep question.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

But a deeper question remains.

Independent

And then Mill raises a deeper question.

The New York Times

The real concern should be about a deeper question.

The New Yorker

And that raises a deeper question: what, exactly, is NASA for?

The Economist

A deeper question is just how helpful such tiny loans really are.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a deep question" to introduce a topic that requires thoughtful and nuanced discussion rather than a simple answer.

Common error

Avoid using "a deep question" for trivial matters; reserve it for inquiries that genuinely explore profound or complex issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deep question" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "deep" modifies the noun "question". As Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deep question" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce inquiries that require careful thought and nuanced understanding. As Ludwig AI has confirmed, it's a versatile expression found across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discourse. While it's important to avoid overuse in casual settings, the phrase effectively signals the need for thoughtful reflection on complex issues. Alternative phrases, such as "a profound inquiry" or "a complex issue", can offer similar nuances depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult question

Focuses on the complexity and challenge presented by the question.

a challenging question

Highlights the stimulating and demanding nature of the question.

a profound inquiry

Replaces "question" with a synonym that emphasizes the depth and significance of the inquiry.

a thought-provoking question

Emphasizes the ability of the question to stimulate reflection and contemplation.

a complex issue

Shifts the focus from a question to the underlying issue being investigated, highlighting its intricate nature.

a question worth pondering

Indicates that the question merits careful consideration and reflection.

a philosophical problem

Specifies the nature of the question, situating it within the realm of philosophical inquiry.

a serious matter

Highlights the significance of the question, focusing on consequences and implications.

a weighty matter

Emphasizes the importance and potential consequences associated with the question.

a tough question to answer

Highlights the difficulty in finding a satisfactory or straightforward response.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce "a deep question" in writing?

Use "a deep question" to signal a shift towards a more complex or philosophical aspect of the topic. It prepares the reader for a discussion requiring careful thought and consideration. You might use phrases like "This raises "a deeper question"" or "The core issue is "a profound question"" to set the stage.

When is it appropriate to use "a deep question" in conversation?

It's best used when initiating a serious or thoughtful discussion, rather than in casual banter. Using it in the wrong context might sound pretentious or out of place. Reserve it for situations where exploring complex or philosophical themes is expected.

What are some alternative ways to describe a question that requires careful consideration?

Besides "a deep question", you could use phrases like "a complex question", "a challenging question", or "a thought-provoking question" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a risk of sounding pretentious when using the phrase "a deep question"?

Yes, if used inappropriately. The phrase can come across as pretentious if applied to trivial or self-evident inquiries. Context is key; make sure the question genuinely warrants the descriptor. Otherwise, consider alternatives like "a difficult question" or "an interesting question".