a question of privilege

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a question of privilege" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in formal discussions or debates to refer to an issue that affects the rights or privileges of a person or group, often in a parliamentary context. Example: "Before we proceed with the agenda, I would like to raise a question of privilege regarding the treatment of our members during the last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"And it's not always a question of privilege.

The New Yorker

A Question of Privilege What if George W. Bush's father had been an ordinary Texas oilman named Smith?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Raising a question of the privileges of the House.

Huffington Post

Penn's latest act poses a larger question of privilege and public service‎.

Los Angeles Times

"This is not a question of asserting some special privilege," the United States ambassador, John D. Negroponte, said today.

The New York Times

He continued: "While some prominent politicians and members of the public may have found the answer to the question of privilege easy to arrive at, from a legal perspective that was not the case".

The Guardian

It's a question of RHIP [rank has its privileges].

Los Angeles Times

This question of privilege is one that rankles Mr. Bush, and when he was asked about it in a long interview about his past, he became prickly.

The New York Times

(ME) This could be interpreted as a defense of deception; however, many doctors in our study saw it as a question of professional discretion, of so-called 'therapeutic privilege'.

BMC Medical Ethics

Letters are welcome via e-mail to [email protected] injusticeSIR – The rich do "enjoy their privileges at the expense of the poor" ("A question of justice?", March 13th).

The Economist

In this class of motions are the motions to fix the time at which to adjourn, to adjourn, to take a recess, and to raise questions of privilege, all of which are undebatable.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a question of privilege" in formal settings, clearly state the specific privilege being addressed and its relevance to the matter at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "a question of privilege" loosely for general complaints. Ensure the issue genuinely pertains to a specific right or immunity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a question of privilege" serves as a formal mechanism to raise concerns about rights or immunities, initiating a discussion or debate within a structured environment. It frames the topic as requiring specific attention and resolution. As Ludwig AI points out, it is often used in formal discussions or debates.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a question of privilege" is a phrase used to formally raise concerns about rights or immunities, prompting discussion and resolution within structured environments. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and primarily found in formal contexts like news reports, encyclopedias, and academic discussions, emphasizing its significance in addressing matters of rights and entitlements. While alternatives like "a matter of privilege" exist, the original phrase maintains a distinct formality and specific usage, signaling the need for careful consideration of established protocols and individual or group rights. The key is to understand the scope of the phrase and use it when a specific right or immunity is genuinely in question.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a matter of privilege

Replaces "question" with "matter", focusing on the existence of privilege.

an issue of privilege

Substitutes "question" with "issue", highlighting privilege as a point of contention.

a debate on privilege

Emphasizes the discussion and controversy surrounding the concept of privilege.

a problem of privilege

Highlights the problematic aspects or consequences associated with privilege.

the privileges at stake

Shifts focus to the potential loss or compromise of existing privileges.

the rights in question

Focuses on the specific rights that are being debated or challenged.

a consideration of privilege

Emphasizes the thoughtful examination and analysis of privilege.

the status under discussion

Highlights the social standing or position that is being debated.

the matter of entitlement

Focuses on the perceived right or claim to certain advantages or benefits.

a subject of preferential treatment

Highlights the unequal advantages afforded to certain individuals or groups.

FAQs

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

You can use "a question of privilege" to introduce a discussion or debate about specific rights or immunities. For example, "Before we vote, I'd like to raise a question of privilege concerning the new voting procedures."

What's another way to say "a question of privilege"?

Alternatives include "a matter of privilege" or "an issue of privilege". These phrases emphasize the importance of the rights and immunities in question.

What does "a question of privilege" typically refer to?

"A question of privilege" usually refers to a formal inquiry or debate regarding the rights, immunities, or special advantages afforded to a particular person or group, often within a structured environment like a parliament or organization.

Is "a question of privilege" the same as "sense of privilege"?

No, "a question of privilege" is a formal inquiry, while "a sense of privilege" describes a feeling of being entitled to certain advantages or benefits, often without conscious awareness.