a nuanced question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a nuanced question' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a question that has many possible interpretations or layers of meaning. For example, "The candidate was asked a nuanced question about immigration policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The selection of specific models for the control of mtDNA populations is a nuanced question and one that we are currently developing further mathematical approaches to address.

eLife

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

This year, the meeting will focus on a more nuanced question: "Global warming: Was it ever a crisis?" Most of the talks at the meeting will challenge climate orthodoxy.

The New York Times - Science

A more nuanced question that Congress will now debate is whether Obama could have done better by maintaining economic sanctions longer and negotiating for tougher terms.

The New Yorker

The problem is that this is a highly nuanced question to which there is no consistent answer, and about which we know too little.

The New Yorker

Raj Date, one of Ms. Warren's deputies and a leading contender to be the bureau's director, said at a Consumer Bankers Association conference in Orlando on Tuesday that the agency's ability to oversee nonbank firms was a "more nuanced question," acknowledging that the statute was open to interpretation.

The New York Times

Rather than voting yes or no, MiVote's users are asked a far more nuanced question that takes a long-term view.

The Guardian - Opinion

The question then becomes who has such sufficient knowledge or who has the power to interpret... and that it is a difficult and nuanced question for us all.

The Guardian - Opinion

A crucial and nuanced question is, under what circumstances do tunneling pathways limit ET rates in proteins?

Accounts of Chemical Research

Singer: "Are U.S. stocks finally cheap?" My, what a wonderfully intriguing and nuanced question!

Forbes

Furthermore, the program's experience poses a more relevant and nuanced question, namely: If we actually set up the system to save money — and required everyone to make a choice — what would happen?

The New York Times

By everyone's admission, deciding when a child is safe with a parent can be a nuanced, difficult question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a nuanced question" when you want to emphasize the complexity and multiple layers of interpretation involved in the question. It implies that a simple answer is not possible and that careful consideration is required.

Common error

Avoid using "nuanced" simply to sound sophisticated. Ensure the question truly warrants the description, meaning it has subtle distinctions and complexities that are not immediately apparent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nuanced question" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun 'question'. It indicates that the question is not straightforward but requires careful consideration of subtle differences and complexities. Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a nuanced question" describes an inquiry that is complex, subtle, and requires careful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. While not exceedingly common, it appears in reputable sources across various domains such as news, science, and formal business contexts. Related phrases include "a complex question" and "a sophisticated question", each offering slight variations in meaning. When using this phrase, ensure that the question truly merits the descriptor and avoid overusing it simply to sound sophisticated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a complex question

Focuses on the intricacy of the question.

a multifaceted question

Highlights the multiple aspects involved.

a sophisticated question

Emphasizes the advanced nature of the question.

an intricate question

Similar to complex, but focuses on interwoven parts.

a subtle question

Highlights the delicacy and indirectness of the question.

a delicate question

Focuses on the sensitivity of the question.

a complicated question

Indicates a high degree of complexity and difficulty.

a profound question

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the question.

a thorny question

Implies the question is challenging and potentially problematic.

a multifaceted inquiry

Replaces "question" with "inquiry", suggesting a more formal or investigative tone.

FAQs

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

You can use "a nuanced question" to describe an inquiry that requires careful consideration and understanding of subtle differences. For example, "The interviewer posed "a nuanced question" about the ethical implications of AI."

What's the difference between "a complex question" and "a nuanced question"?

While both describe intricate inquiries, "a complex question" emphasizes the many interconnected parts, whereas "a nuanced question" highlights the subtle distinctions and interpretations involved. Think of complexity as structural and nuance as interpretative.

What are some alternatives to saying "a nuanced question"?

You can use alternatives such as "a complex question", "a sophisticated question", or "a subtle question" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

Is it always appropriate to describe a question as "nuanced"?

No, not every question warrants the descriptor "nuanced". Use it judiciously for inquiries that genuinely require careful consideration of subtle differences and are not easily answered with a straightforward response.