a probing question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a probing question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is intended to elicit a deeper or more thoughtful response, often in discussions or interviews. Example: "During the interview, she asked a probing question that revealed the candidate's true motivations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Boy, it's good to see you all!" he said when asked a probing question.

The New York Times

"How would you define the difference between a probing question and a rude one?" she was asked.

The New York Times

The most annoying tic of political interviewees over the past year was their habit of asking themselves a probing question in a spirit of fake humility and openness.

Independent

Whenever I had the urge to make an interpretation or ask a probing question, I had to keep reminding myself to let it go.

The New York Times - Magazine

He offered no clues as to whom he would support as the new pope — "Boy, it's good to see you all!" he boomed when asked a probing question by a reporter — and thanked local worshipers for giving him a big basket of Italian biscuits, cookies, tuna and chickpeas.

The New York Times

When he says, "Give to the emperor... .. Jesus is urging his antagonists to ask themselves a probing question.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

I like the way that Dory's friend Elliott John Earlyy), when asked a modestly probing question about his plans as the founder of a self-righteous bottled-water startup, chirps that he's trying to "start the conversation" as a conversation-closing dodge.

The New Yorker

"What I saw was her asking a lot of probing questions, a lot of concern about would this be effective," said Andrew Shapiro, Clinton's foreign policy adviser at the time, referring to the days leading up to her decision.

The Washington Post

Sometimes a customer asks Richard probing questions about a particular safe.

The New Yorker

The Mike Wallace Interview was characterized by a cutthroat attitude, probing questions, close-ups shots, and lots of cigarette smoke.

Vice

The cognitive interview will consist of an investigator accompanying the participants as they complete the AHP task and asking a range of probing questions.

F1000Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing dialogue, use "a probing question" to signal a shift in the conversation's intensity or direction. It helps create tension or reveal deeper truths about characters and situations.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a probing question" in your writing. While it's a useful phrase, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or formulaic. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "an insightful question" or "a penetrating inquiry" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a probing question" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and describe a specific type of question characterized by its intent to explore beneath the surface or delve into hidden aspects of a topic. According to Ludwig, this usage is correct and generally accepted.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a probing question" is a commonly used phrase to describe an inquiry designed to uncover deeper meanings and motivations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and scientific fields. While versatile, it's best employed when you want to signal an intent to explore beyond surface-level information. Remember to vary your language and use synonyms like "an insightful question" or "a penetrating inquiry" to keep your writing engaging. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use the phrase to add depth and clarity to your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an insightful question

Emphasizes the depth and understanding the question reveals.

a penetrating inquiry

Highlights the ability of the question to delve deeply into a topic.

a searching question

Focuses on the thoroughness and wide scope of the question.

a deep question

Simple alternative highlighting the profundity sought.

an incisive question

Stresses the sharpness and precision of the question.

a sharp question

A more informal way to describe an insightful question.

a thoughtful question

Emphasizes the consideration behind the question.

a revealing question

Focuses on the capacity of the question to uncover hidden information.

a pertinent question

Highlights the relevance and importance of the question.

a critical question

Focuses on the essential nature of the question to the matter at hand.

FAQs

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

You can use "a probing question" to describe an inquiry that seeks to uncover deeper meaning or understanding. For example: "The journalist asked "a probing question" about the company's environmental impact."

What's a good alternative to "a probing question"?

Alternatives include "an insightful question", "a penetrating inquiry", or "a searching question". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to ask "a probing question" or "probing questions"?

The choice depends on whether you're referring to a single question or multiple questions. "Probing questions" is used when referring to several inquiries, while "a probing question" is singular.

What makes a question "probing"?

A question is considered "probing" when it goes beyond surface-level information to explore underlying motives, assumptions, or deeper meanings. It aims to elicit a more thoughtful and revealing response from the person being asked.