a question like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question like this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used whenever you want to refer to a specific type of question without stating the exact question. Example: "I often struggle with difficult questions, but a question like this is easy to answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

So let's get started, for example, a question like this one, where do we come from?

Cornell University

With so many interesting options out there, it's quite logical to ask a question like this.

Stanford University

— Nancy With a question like this, there's always the risk of hindsight bias.

The New York Times

Barooah wasn't about to try to answer a question like this with guesswork.

The New York Times - Magazine

And just being able to ask a question like this shows how invested you are in developing rich, meaningful relationships.

Columbia University

The answers to a question like this give you a lens through which to view your financial decisions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

It seemed like 'Oh wait a minute, they just asked me a question like that one there, is this a trick thing?' you know".

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

I usually end with a questions like this, but why did you choose to become an author?

The Guardian

Before you do something ask yourself a question like, Is this a good choice?

WikiHow

Starting a meeting with a question like, "how can we address this issue?" opens up a forum for discussion that can easily get off track.

HuffPost

If I'm one the one asking a question like, "What should happen next in this story?" I can't also be the one answering it.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a question like this", ensure the context clearly indicates what 'this' refers to. This can be a previously mentioned question or a hypothetical one you are about to introduce.

Common error

Avoid using "a question like this" without providing sufficient context. Ensure your audience understands precisely which question you are referencing to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question like this" functions as a determiner phrase that introduces or refers back to a type of question, often serving to categorize or generalize about similar inquiries. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question like this" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to refer to a specific type of question without explicitly stating it. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. It is particularly common in News & Media and Academic contexts, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates which question is being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For variety, consider alternatives such as "a question of this sort" or "an issue like this".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a question of this sort

This alternative uses "sort" instead of "this", indicating a similar category or type of question.

a question such as this

This alternative uses "such as" to specify that the question being referred to is an example of a broader category.

a query like this

It uses the formal word "query" instead of question, making it a bit more formal.

an inquiry like this

Similar to 'query', it conveys a formal tone.

an issue like this

This broadens the reference from just questions to any kind of issue that is similar.

a concern like this

This focuses on the worrying or problematic aspect of the subject, if applicable.

a problem like this

It refers to the question like a problem which requires solution.

a subject like this

This is more general and can refer to any topic or subject under discussion.

a matter like this

Emphasizes the importance or seriousness of the topic.

a point like this

It refers to the question like a relevant point to be considered.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a question like this" for variety?

You can use alternatives like "a question of this sort", "a question such as this", or "an issue like this" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a question like this" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "a question like this" is generally suitable, but for extremely formal contexts, consider using more precise language. Alternatives include "a query like this" or directly stating the type of question.

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

"This question" refers to a specific question already mentioned or immediately apparent. "A question like this" refers to a type or category of question, not necessarily one particular instance. For example, "this question is difficult, but a question like "a question like this" often arises."

When should I avoid using "a question like this"?

Avoid using "a question like this" if the context is unclear or if the specific question you're referencing hasn't been explicitly stated. Clarity is key; if there's any ambiguity, it's better to be more specific.