a major question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a major question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an important or significant issue that requires attention or consideration. Example: "In the context of climate change, a major question is how we can effectively reduce carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And their chemistry remains a major question.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Chávez's health is a major question.

The New York Times

Peavy is a major question mark.

The Guardian - Sport

A major question, beyond the culpability of A.E.G.

The New York Times

Then the senator asks a major question: was the C.I.O.

The New York Times

The soldier's "goodness" becomes a major question in Ford's novel.

The Guardian - Books

But a major question remained: Did removing the polyps really save lives?

The New York Times - Health

But how to push a plan by House conservatives remained a major question mark.

The New York Times

"It's about a major question that goes through American society," he said.

The New York Times

Banks came into the season as a major question mark after playing sparingly in 2001.

The New York Times - Sports

The impact these measures will have on growth is a major question.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a major question", clearly articulate its relevance to the overall discussion or argument to maintain focus and provide context for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a major question" for minor or trivial issues. Reserve it for truly significant inquiries that warrant substantial consideration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a major question" functions as a noun phrase that introduces or highlights a significant issue or inquiry. It sets the stage for discussion, analysis, or investigation, indicating that the following content will address an important unresolved matter. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a major question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce significant issues or uncertainties. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted and applicable across various domains. It is most commonly found in scientific, news media, and formal business contexts. When employing this phrase, make sure the question is genuinely significant and relevant to the overall discussion. Consider using synonyms like "a key issue" or "a primary concern" to vary your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an essential inquiry

Highlights the necessity of the investigation or questioning.

a key issue

Focuses on the importance of the topic, similar to highlighting the significance of the "question".

a primary concern

Highlights the worry or importance associated with the issue, changing the focus from inquiry to concern.

a foremost issue

Stresses the prominence and priority of the matter.

a central problem

Emphasizes the problematic nature of the issue rather than its interrogative aspect.

a significant challenge

Shifts the focus to the difficulty or obstacle the issue presents, instead of framing it as a question.

a critical point

Highlights the decisiveness and importance of the matter at hand.

a crucial consideration

Stresses the importance of considering the matter carefully, moving from an inquiry to a deliberation.

a pressing matter

Focuses on the urgency and importance of the issue needing immediate attention.

a fundamental puzzle

Frames the issue as an unsolved mystery requiring investigation, adding a layer of complexity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a major question" to introduce a significant issue or uncertainty, such as "A major question is whether the policy will effectively address climate change".

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

You can use alternatives like "a key issue", "a primary concern", or "a significant challenge" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "an major question" instead of "a major question"?

No, the correct phrasing is "a major question". The article "a" is used before consonant sounds, while "an" is used before vowel sounds.

What is the difference between "a major question" and "a minor question"?

"A major question" indicates a significant or important issue, while "a minor question" refers to a less important or trivial issue.