a simple question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that the question being asked is straightforward or easy to answer. Example: "I have a simple question: What time does the meeting start?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sports

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a simple question.

The New York Times

Consider, therefore, a simple question.

The Economist

A simple question.

The Times

I'd only asked a simple question.

The Guardian

You were just asking a simple question.

The New Yorker

Actually, it's quite a simple question.

Independent

It would seem a simple question.

The Economist

It seems like a simple question.

The Economist

It should be a simple question.

The Economist

"I was asking a simple question".

The New York Times - Sports

"That's a simple question to answer.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a simple question" to preface an actual question, ensure that the question itself is indeed straightforward to avoid undermining your credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple question" to introduce complex or multifaceted issues. This can create a mismatch between expectation and reality, potentially frustrating your audience.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a simple question" is to act as a noun phrase that introduces or refers to an inquiry. It often serves as a preface, setting the expectation that the following question will be easy to understand or answer. As demonstrated by Ludwig, this phrase is widely used across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

20%

Tech

10%

Less common in

Sports

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple question" is a widely used phrase to introduce an inquiry perceived as easy to understand and answer. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, academia, and general conversation. It's crucial to use this phrase accurately; avoid applying it to complex inquiries to prevent misleading your audience. Related phrases include "an easy question" and "a straightforward question", which offer similar connotations. Remember to match the question's actual complexity with the introduction to maintain credibility and clarity in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy question

Replaces "simple" with a direct synonym emphasizing lack of difficulty.

a straightforward question

Emphasizes the direct and uncomplicated nature of the question.

a basic question

Highlights the fundamental or elementary nature of the question.

a clear question

Focuses on the question's understandability and lack of ambiguity.

an uncomplicated question

Directly states the lack of complexity.

a direct question

Indicates the question is to the point and without hidden agendas.

a plain question

Suggests the question is straightforward and without embellishment.

a fundamental question

Implies the question addresses a core or essential concept.

a rudimentary question

Conveys the question is at the most basic level of understanding.

an elementary question

Similar to 'basic', highlighting the foundational nature of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple question" to introduce an inquiry that appears easy to answer. For example, "I have a simple question: What time does the meeting start?"

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

You can use alternatives like "an easy question", "a straightforward question", or "a basic question" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a simple question" or "an simple question"?

"A simple question" is the correct phrase. The indefinite article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

What's the difference between "a simple question" and "a complex question"?

"A simple question" refers to an inquiry that is easy to understand and answer, while "a complex question" implies a more intricate and challenging inquiry.