a larger question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a larger question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a broader or more significant issue that encompasses a specific topic or concern. Example: "While we can debate the merits of this policy, it ultimately leads us to a larger question about the future of our society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But a larger question remains.

The New York Times

But there's a larger question.

The New Yorker

– that's a larger question.

The Guardian

Which brings up a larger question.

The New York Times

Which leads to a larger question.

The New York Times

(That is a larger question).

The New Yorker

And then there is a larger question.

The New York Times - Health

But there is a larger question.

The New York Times

That's a larger question than the Internet can resolve".

The New York Times - Arts

A larger question relates to producing old melodrama.

The New York Times

But we should be asking a larger question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a larger question" to transition from a specific detail to a more general or fundamental issue that the detail implies. It provides context and depth to your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "a larger question" too frequently in a single piece of writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your transitions with phrases like "a key consideration" or "the bigger picture".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a larger question" functions as an introductory phrase, often used to signal a transition in thought or discussion. It highlights that the current topic leads to a more encompassing or significant inquiry. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a larger question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to transition discussions toward more significant or encompassing inquiries. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a versatile tool for prompting deeper analysis across various contexts, particularly in news and academic writing. When using this phrase, it's important to consider whether a more specific alternative like "a more significant issue" or "the bigger picture" might be more appropriate to avoid redundancy. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate register, you can effectively use "a larger question" to enhance your writing and encourage thoughtful consideration of broader implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a more significant issue

Focuses on the importance of the issue rather than its scope.

a more encompassing query

Replaces "question" with a synonym and "larger" with "encompassing"

a more general inquiry

Replaces "question" with a synonym and "larger" with "general"

a broader perspective

Shifts the focus to an encompassing view.

a more fundamental problem

Highlights the basic nature of the problem.

the bigger picture

Emphasizes considering the overall context.

a wider implication

Focuses on the range of effects or consequences.

a key consideration

Highlights the importance of a particular factor.

a central challenge

Identifies a primary obstacle or difficulty.

the underlying principle

Points to the basic rule or concept at play.

FAQs

How to use "a larger question" in a sentence?

You can use "a larger question" to introduce a broader issue related to the topic at hand. For example, "While we debate the specifics of this policy, "a larger question" remains: what is the role of government in individual lives?"

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

You can use alternatives like "a more significant issue", "the bigger picture", or "a key consideration" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a larger question"?

It is appropriate when you want to shift the focus from a specific detail or problem to a more general or fundamental issue. Use it to provide context and explore deeper implications.

What's the difference between "a larger question" and "a broader question"?

While similar, ""a larger question"" implies a question of greater significance or impact, whereas "a broader question" suggests a question with wider scope or application.