a question of degrees

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of degrees" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing topics that involve varying levels or intensities, often in relation to opinions, judgments, or conditions. Example: "The difference between the two proposals is not absolute; it's really a question of degrees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But this is a question of degrees.

Independent

But it's not a question of degrees of ability, of who was the greater dancer.

The Guardian - Books

By contrast, war today seems more a question of degrees and limits, while equality seems less about the laws of the land than about disparities in economic and educational opportunities that are subtler and harder to address.

The New York Times

Simone insisted that the imbalance is shown by the fact that it took Atlético 70 minutes to see off Elche while it took Barcelona 10; he is right, but while the game remains 90 minutes long that may be a question of degrees, not final outcome.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a question of degrees.

Forbes

Interestingly, a previous study on the mouse mandible, which used the squared trace correlation coefficient method, suggested that modular QTL effects for mandible shape were more a question of degrees of covariation rather than dichotomy between the alveolar region and the ascending ramus (Klingenberg et al. 2004).

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

It's just a question of degree.

The New York Times - Arts

But it's a question of degree.

The Guardian

A. O.K., remember, this is a question of degree.

The New York Times

"But for us it is a question of degree.

The Guardian

Australia will be more solid by then, but it is a question of degree.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a question of degrees" to indicate that a difference is not absolute but varies on a scale. This emphasizes the relative nature of the distinction.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of degrees" when an absolute distinction is intended. This phrase is best suited for situations where differences are incremental, not binary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of degrees" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that the difference between two things is not absolute but rather a matter of scale, intensity, or level. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The expression "a question of degrees" is a useful idiom for indicating that a difference is one of level or intensity, rather than an absolute distinction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and can be used in various contexts, particularly in news media, science, and academic discussions. When using this phrase, ensure that you intend to convey a relative difference and not a binary one. Alternatives such as "a matter of scale" or "a question of intensity" can be used to add nuance to your writing. Remember that misusing the phrase may obscure your intended meaning and confuse the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of scale

Focuses on the relative size or extent involved.

a matter of gradation

Highlights the gradual progression between different levels.

a question of intensity

Emphasizes the level of strength or force involved.

a sliding scale

Implies a continuous range where values can vary.

a spectrum of possibilities

Suggests a range of options with varying characteristics.

relative difference

Points out that the distinction depends on comparison.

varying levels

Indicates that something exists at different stages or ranks.

a question of proportion

Highlights the balanced relationship between elements.

a nuanced distinction

Focuses on subtle differences that are not immediately obvious.

a gradation of differences

Emphasizes subtle, incremental variations.

FAQs

How can I use "a question of degrees" in a sentence?

Use "a question of degrees" to show that a difference is one of level or intensity, rather than an absolute difference. For example, "The ethical concerns are not absent, but it's "a question of degrees"."

What does "a question of degrees" mean?

The phrase "a question of degrees" means that something is not simply present or absent, but exists in varying amounts or levels. It indicates a difference in intensity or scale rather than an absolute distinction.

Are there alternatives to saying "a question of degrees"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "a matter of scale", "a matter of gradation", or "a question of intensity" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "a question of degree" instead of "a question of degrees"?

While both forms exist, "a question of degree" typically refers to a specific point on a scale, whereas "a question of degrees" implies a range or variation across the entire scale. The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.