a question like that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question like that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific type of question that is being discussed or asked about. Example: "I was surprised by her response to a question like that; it was quite unexpected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't ask me a question like that.

The New York Times

Sometimes a question like that can be hard to answer.

The New York Times

"You (reporter) are nobody to put a question like that.

Independent

It is probably not the function of the author to answer a question like that.

The New Yorker

DEB, New York A. It takes a lot of time to answer a question like that.

The New York Times

I don't think I'm qualified to answer a question like that.

The New York Times

It takes months and months to discuss a question like that.

The New York Times

I never thought I would hear a 9-year-old ask a question like that.

The New York Times

"Is it far?" And how, she wonders, does she answer a question like that.

The New Yorker

He had replied, "This is the last time you are going to ask me a question like that.

The Guardian

"DOES Microsoft still have a big, hairy audacious goal?" Not everybody would presume to ask Bill Gates a question like that.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a question like that" when you want to refer back to a previously mentioned or understood type of inquiry, avoiding repetition and maintaining flow.

Common error

While "a question like that" is acceptable in many contexts, be mindful of its frequency in formal writing. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or less precise. Consider using more specific terminology when possible to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question like that" functions as a referential phrase, pointing back to a previously mentioned or understood type of question. Ludwig confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question like that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to refer back to a previously discussed type of inquiry. As Ludwig AI points out, it's versatile enough for both news and academic contexts, although formal writing might benefit from more specific alternatives. The phrase is found in authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, which confirms its widespread acceptance. When writing, be mindful of overuse, and consider whether a more precise term would enhance clarity. Keep in mind the advice given by Ludwig regarding contexts of usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

such a question

Uses "such" to indicate a similar type of question, providing a more concise alternative.

that kind of question

Emphasizes the category or type of question being referred to.

a query of that nature

Replaces "question" with the more formal "query" and uses "nature" to describe the type.

a question along those lines

Indicates that the question is similar in theme or direction.

a similar question

Focuses on the similarity between the question being discussed and another one.

a question of that sort

Uses "sort" to refer to the kind or type of question being asked.

a question in that vein

Implies that the question follows a particular style or approach.

a question to that effect

Suggests the question has a similar impact or result.

a query of this type

More formal alternative, substituting "question" with "query" and focusing on the category.

a question framed in that way

Highlights how the question is phrased or structured.

FAQs

How can I use "a question like that" in a sentence?

You can use "a question like that" to refer back to a previously mentioned type of question. For example, "I'm not sure how to answer "a question like that", as it's quite complex."

What can I say instead of "a question like that"?

You can use alternatives like "such a question", "that kind of question", or "a query of that nature" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a question like that" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, using alternatives might improve the formality and specificity of your writing. Consider options like "a query of this type" or "a question framed in that way" for enhanced clarity.

What's the difference between "a question like that" and "such a question"?

"A question like that" is slightly more conversational, while "such a question" is more concise and can be more suitable for formal contexts. Both refer to a similar type of inquiry, but the latter is often preferred in writing for its brevity.