a detailed question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a detailed question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a question that requires thoroughness or specificity in its formulation. Example: "In order to provide a comprehensive answer, please ask a detailed question about the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

I have a detailed question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

While Mannheimer said she doesn't consider herself a representative of Judaism, and referred a visitor with a very detailed question about Bar Mitzvah texts to a rabbi (he had already asked a rabbi, he said, and the rabbi wasn't sure, so he thought he'd ask her), there were questions she felt qualified to handle.

The New Yorker

These employees have their own version of the app on an iPad and can see incoming requests for different sizes, colors, or for themselves if a customer has a more detailed question.

TechCrunch

A more detailed question about Obama's "adjustment" to a rule about "religiously-affiliated employers" still garners majority support (54%).

Huffington Post

But if you want to capture a more detailed question such as geographic locations, this will cost a business more money.

TechCrunch

The following is a very detailed question from Linda Plaut of Golden, Colo.

The New York Times

However, in 2007, when the pollsters posed a more detailed question that explained the environmental benefits and safety risks of nuclear power, 61% said its share of the energy market should be cut.

The Economist

Occasionally, but only occasionally, a serious detailed question was listened to in respectful silence but otherwise it was largely business as usual.

BBC

Still, a more detailed question used in 2005 may have prompted higher reporting than the single question used in 1995.

BMC Women's Health

In the second study, three PA questions from the NHIS (job-related activity, main daily activity, and activity compared to peers) were compared with summary measures from a detailed PA question set [ 12].

BMC Medical Research Methodology

While any statement or document can be falsified, if the sellers evade a barrage of detailed questions, that is a good sign that they are not legitimate.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a detailed question" to encourage responders to delve into specifics rather than offer generalities.

Common error

Avoid using "a detailed question" when a simple, direct question suffices. Overusing it can make your communication sound overly formal or even pretentious. Opt for simpler phrasing when the context doesn't require extensive detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a detailed question" functions as a noun phrase typically serving as the object of a verb such as 'ask', 'pose', or 'answer'. It indicates a query that requires a thorough and specific response. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a detailed question" is a grammatically correct and useful phrase for eliciting comprehensive and specific information. Ludwig indicates that while not overly common, it's used across various domains, including News & Media and Science. For optimal use, remember to employ this phrase when a thorough response is truly needed, avoiding overuse in contexts where simpler phrasing suffices. Alternatives such as "a specific inquiry" or "a comprehensive query" can be considered to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a specific inquiry

Focuses on the particularity of the question.

a comprehensive query

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the question.

an elaborate interrogation

Highlights the depth and complexity of the questioning.

a thorough investigation

Shifts the focus to the investigative nature of the questioning.

an in-depth exploration

Emphasizes the detailed nature and purpose of the questioning.

a meticulous examination

Highlights the precise and careful nature of the questioning.

an extensive probe

Emphasizes the broad scope of the questioning.

a rigorous inquiry

Highlights the strict and demanding nature of the questioning.

a painstaking request

Emphasizes the detailed care and attention required in the question.

a granulated request

Implies the request is broken down to very detailed and precise parts.

FAQs

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

You can use "a detailed question" to emphasize the need for a thorough and specific answer. For example, "The lawyer presented "a detailed question" to the witness to uncover all the facts".

What are some alternatives to "a detailed question"?

You can use alternatives like "a specific inquiry", "a comprehensive query", or "an in-depth exploration" depending on the context.

What distinguishes "a detailed question" from "a simple question"?

"A detailed question" requires a thorough and specific response, whereas a simple question can be answered briefly. Using ""a detailed question"" signals that you need more than a basic answer.

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

No, it's not always necessary. Use ""a detailed question"" when you require in-depth information or clarification. If the information needed is straightforward, a simpler question is more appropriate.