a natural question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a natural question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a question that arises logically or intuitively in a given context. Example: "Given the recent changes in policy, it's a natural question to ask how these will affect our operations moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It was a natural question.

The New York Times - Magazine

Which leads to a natural question: how does he brew his own cup?

The New Yorker

A natural question is whether computers are making dictionary editors redundant.

The Economist

A natural question now arises.

Advances in Difference Equations

Finally, a natural question arises.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

A natural question is the following.

Advances in Difference Equations

A natural question arises from Example 3.5.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

Now, a natural question arises: Question.

Fixed Point Theory and Applications

A natural question arises as follows.

Boundary Value Problems

Based on the above, a natural question is as follows.

Journal of Inequalities and Applications

Of course, a natural question is the following.

Advances in Difference Equations

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a natural question" to introduce inquiries that follow logically from a previous statement or observation, signaling that the question is an expected or intuitive next step in the discussion. It provides a smooth transition and indicates that the question is pertinent to the ongoing conversation.

Common error

While "a natural question" is a valid phrase, overuse can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your phrasing by using alternatives like "an obvious question", "a logical question", or framing the question directly to maintain reader engagement and stylistic variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a natural question" functions as a discourse marker or transitional phrase. It is often used to introduce a question that arises logically from the preceding context, signaling to the reader that the question is a relevant and expected inquiry. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a natural question" is a grammatically sound and usable way to introduce an inquiry that logically follows from the preceding context. While it is considered appropriate for a range of writing, Ludwig reveals that it is most frequently used in scientific and journalistic settings. To enhance writing style and avoid repetition, it is recommended to consider alternatives such as "an obvious question" or "a logical question".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an obvious question

Emphasizes the clarity and ease with which the question comes to mind; it's readily apparent.

a logical question

Highlights that the question is a result of reasoning and follows logically from the preceding information.

a pertinent question

Stresses the relevance and importance of the question in the current context.

a relevant question

Highlights the connection and significance of the question to the subject at hand.

a reasonable question

Suggests the question is fair and justified, fitting the circumstances.

a valid question

Indicates the question is sound, well-founded, and legitimate to ask.

an expected question

Implies the question was anticipated or foreseeable given the situation.

an understandable question

Focuses on the ease with which someone can grasp why the question is being asked.

a predictable question

Emphasizes that the question could have been easily foreseen based on the situation.

an intuitive question

Stresses that the question arises from a gut feeling or instinct, rather than conscious reasoning.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a natural question"?

You can use alternatives such as "an obvious question", "a logical question", or "a pertinent question" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to start a sentence with "a natural question"?

While grammatically correct, starting multiple sentences in a row with "a natural question" can make your writing sound repetitive. Use it judiciously and vary your sentence structure.

What's the difference between "a natural question" and "an obvious question"?

"A natural question" implies the question arises logically from the context. "An obvious question", on the other hand, suggests the question is readily apparent and easily anticipated.

How to use "a natural question" effectively in academic writing?

In academic writing, use "a natural question" to introduce a research question or inquiry that stems directly from your literature review or previous findings. This signals that the question is a logical and important extension of existing knowledge.