a profound question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a profound question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is deep, significant, or thought-provoking. Example: "The speaker posed a profound question that left the audience in deep contemplation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Moore: That's a profound question.

The New Yorker

This is a profound question.

The New York Times

This poses a profound question.

The Guardian

It could even be considered a profound question.

Princeton University

It poses a profound question — Can a bad mother repair the damage she has caused?

The New Yorker

Tebow asks a profound question of his sport: Can a football player be different from his results?

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"We're at a remarkable moment in human history where we have the opportunity to answer a very profound question, a question that I think humans have asked for as long as humans have existed".

Vice

But we think there is a more profound question that merits consideration alongside this debate: are constitutional courts a boon or a threat to the project of maintaining a democracy?

University of Chicago

So that's a very profound question.

Cornell University

Instead, the clampdown raised a more profound question.

The New York Times

All of which raises a rather profound question: Were teeth inevitable?

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a profound question" to introduce a query that requires deep thought and careful consideration. It's suitable for both academic and journalistic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a profound question" in overly casual settings. The phrase carries a weight that might seem out of place in everyday conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "interesting question" or "good question".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a profound question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object complement in a sentence. It identifies a question characterized by its depth, significance, and potential to provoke thoughtful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

29%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a profound question" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase to describe a question that is deep, significant, and thought-provoking. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples reveals its frequent appearance in news media, academic writing, and scientific discourse. While suitable for various settings, it is particularly effective in formal contexts where serious inquiry is valued. Consider alternatives like "a deep inquiry" or "a critical question" depending on the desired nuance. Remember that using it in casual conversation might sound pretentious. Overall, Ludwig AI confirms "a profound question" is a valuable phrase for enriching your writing and facilitating deep thinking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a critical question

Emphasizes that the question is essential or of utmost importance, replacing "profound" with "critical".

a significant query

Substitutes "profound" with "significant" highlighting the importance of the question.

a deep inquiry

Replaces "question" with "inquiry" emphasizing a formal investigation.

an insightful query

Highlights the potential for gaining understanding from the question, replacing "profound" with "insightful".

a thought-provoking issue

Replaces "question" with "issue" and "profound" with "thought-provoking" focusing on the stimulating nature of the topic.

a crucial consideration

Presents the question as a critical element to consider, emphasizing its importance in decision-making.

a weighty matter

Shifts from question to the concept of a "matter", emphasizing its importance and impact.

a philosophical conundrum

Frames the question as a puzzle, specifically in a philosophical context.

a fundamental problem

Replaces "question" with "problem", highlighting a core issue needing resolution.

a complex enigma

Uses more dramatic language to emphasize the difficulty and mysterious nature of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a profound question" to introduce a query that requires deep thought and careful consideration. For example, "The philosopher's lecture ended with a profound question about the nature of reality".

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

You can use alternatives like "a deep inquiry", "a significant query", or "a critical question" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a profound question" or "an important question"?

While both phrases suggest significance, "a profound question" implies deeper, more philosophical implications than "an important question". The choice depends on the specific context and the depth of the query.

What makes a question "profound"?

A "profound question" delves into fundamental aspects of existence, knowledge, or values. It often challenges assumptions and can lead to new insights or perspectives.