a prior question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a prior question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that was asked earlier in a discussion or conversation. Example: "Before we move on to the next topic, I would like to address a prior question regarding the budget."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Its great difficulty was with a prior question: which sort of thing are you – a building or a movement?

The Guardian - Opinion

This uncertainty resolves only when measured (for example, by being asked a question), and the result will be affected by the state of the individual's reasoning in the wake of any previous measurements (such as a prior question).

The Economist

One reason the UN allotted about half the land to the Jews, even though they made up only a third of the population, was precisely to make room for the influx from Europe.If partition was a pragmatic response to the reality of the time, a prior question is: by what right did the 600,000 or so Jews of mandatory Palestine come to be there in the first place?

The Economist

Before we turn to these issues, a prior question is whether philosophical intuitions should be viewed as analytic or synthetic.

SEP

There is, of course, a prior question about why individuals should have roughly equal say in decision-making in the first place.

SEP

To make progress on that question, however, there is, a prior question to answer: what are the criteria for inclusion in the list?

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

Will they spend enough money to combat the disease, and will they spend it wisely?A billion here, a billion thereA prior question is how much could usefully be spent fighting AIDS.

The Economist

Although patients were asked not to proceed to the final question until completing all prior questions, it is difficult to ascertain compliance.

Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics

Before we even get to the problem how the structure of morality is supposed to follow from moral language, there is the prior question "Whose moral language?"; and this is a deeper question.

SEP

The question in any democracy, but especially a direct democracy in which citizens legislate at the ballot box, is how much voters do in fact know.A prior question may be what voters think they know.

The Economist

The prior question is: for whom are triptans indicated?

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a prior question", ensure the connection to the main topic is evident. This helps readers understand why addressing this question is critical for the subsequent discussion.

Common error

Avoid overusing "a prior question" in informal contexts where simpler alternatives like "an earlier question" or "a previous question" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a prior question" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically serving as an adjective modifying a noun (e.g., issue, concern). It introduces a query that must be addressed before proceeding to another topic. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a prior question" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English, as validated by Ludwig AI. It serves to highlight an issue that must be addressed before moving on to subsequent points. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts, denoting a formal tone. Related phrases include "a preliminary question" or "an earlier question". To ensure clarity, it's crucial to establish the connection between the prior question and the overall topic being discussed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a preliminary question

Emphasizes the question's role as setting the stage for further inquiry.

an earlier question

Highlights that the question was posed at an earlier point in time.

a preceding question

Similar to "prior", stressing the temporal order of the question.

a foundational question

Indicates the question is fundamental and serves as a base for further understanding.

a basic question

Focuses on the simplicity and essential nature of the question.

the primary question

Stresses the importance and centrality of the question.

the key question

Emphasizes that the question is essential for resolving the issue.

the initial question

Highlights that the question is the starting point of the investigation.

a fundamental question

Indicates the question delves into the most important and essential aspects.

the overriding question

Indicates the question is the most important and takes precedence over others.

FAQs

What does "a prior question" mean?

The phrase "a prior question" refers to a question that needs to be answered before moving on to another question or issue. It highlights a necessary preliminary inquiry.

How is "a prior question" used in a sentence?

You can use "a prior question" to introduce a fundamental issue that must be resolved first. For instance, "Before discussing the budget, "a prior question" is whether we have sufficient funds."

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

Alternatives include "an earlier question", "a preliminary question", or "a foundational question". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "previous question" or "a prior question"?

Both "previous question" and "a prior question" are grammatically correct, but "a prior question" is more formal and emphasizes the importance of addressing the question before moving forward. In more informal settings, "previous question" may be more suitable.