a parting question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a parting question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to ask a final question before concluding a conversation or meeting. Example: "Before we wrap up this discussion, I have a parting question for you: What are your thoughts on the next steps?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A parting question.

The Guardian - Film

As a parting question, I ask Redmayne what he enjoys about acting.

The Guardian - Film

I couldn't let them go without a parting question on Facebook.

TechCrunch

As a parting question, I asked Her Deepness how people can exercise that power on a personal level.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Without a paradigm shift, understanding the economics and illness of addiction, parents in Mexico and the U.S. will increasingly risk replacing that standard parting question to their teens off for a social evening-from,'where are you going tonight,' to 'where are you dying tonight.'" I am afraid no wall on our borders will stop the cartels, they will just build a tunnel.

Huffington Post

The inevitable parting question – any regrets?

The Guardian

I can't think of any other minister who would answer my parting question as she did.

The Guardian

In every greeting there is a parting.

Independent

He then offers a parting reminder.

The New York Times - Magazine

She had left, the doctor wrote, "without a parting word".

The New York Times

Critics called them a parting gift to organized labor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a parting question" to signal the conclusion of a discussion, especially in interviews or formal settings, to leave a lasting impression or gather final thoughts.

Common error

Avoid using "a parting question" in casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal or staged. Opt for simpler phrases like "one last question" or "just wondering" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a parting question" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a concluding inquiry. As Ludwig highlights, it commonly appears in contexts where a final point or inquiry is made before concluding a conversation or interview.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a parting question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a final question, especially at the end of a conversation or interview. As per Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts and carries a tone that ranges from neutral to professional. While semantically interchangeable alternatives exist, "a parting question" is best suited for more formal settings. The Ludwig AI confirms its usability, suggesting its strategic use for making a lasting impression or gathering final insights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a concluding inquiry

Replaces "question" with "inquiry", adding a slightly more formal tone.

a final query

Substitutes "question" with "query", suggesting a more direct or official inquiry.

an ending question

Uses "ending" instead of "parting", focusing on the temporal aspect of the question.

a last question

Replaces "parting" with "last", indicating the terminal nature of the question.

a closing question

Uses "closing" instead of "parting", emphasizing the act of bringing something to an end.

one final question

Adds "one" for emphasis, highlighting that it is the single last question.

a question to conclude with

Rephrases to emphasize the purpose of the question as a conclusion.

a final thought in the form of a question

Expands the phrase to clarify that the question serves as a final reflection.

before we go, a question

Rearranges the sentence structure to highlight the timing of the question.

one last thing, a question

Similar to adding "one", this emphasizes the finality and singularity of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a parting question" to introduce a final inquiry at the end of a conversation or interview. For example: "As "a parting question", what are your thoughts on the future of the company?"

What's the difference between "a parting question" and "a final question"?

"A parting question" implies a question asked specifically as someone is leaving or ending a discussion, while "a final question" simply means the last question, regardless of the context of departure. They are similar, but "a parting question" has a stronger connotation of conclusion or farewell.

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

You can use alternatives like "a concluding inquiry", "a final query", or "a closing question" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is "a parting question" appropriate for casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "a parting question" is generally more suited for formal settings like interviews or meetings. In casual conversations, it might sound overly formal; consider using simpler alternatives like "one last thing?" or "before I go...".