a singular question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a singular question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to one specific question, often to emphasize its uniqueness or importance. Example: "In this discussion, I would like to pose a singular question that addresses the core issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The wage gap is a singular question of fairness.

The New York Times

For 17 hours — spread across three meetings and nine days and two Manhattan hotels — the men who control the N.B.A.'s fate gazed across conference tables and pondered a singular question: what will it take to end the lockout?

The New York Times - Sports

"Through this entire production, Arthur and I have had a terrific dialogue that's motivated by a singular question: Can we do better?" said Mr. Seller, who produced the show with Kevin McCollum and James L. Nederlander.

The New York Times

As a country, we're seemingly fixated on a singular question: Where are trans people allowed to pee?

Huffington Post

The one study that is directly comparable is a 2010 landline telephone survey of 2,000 Albertans [ 36], which also used a singular question to establish past year prevalence of various behavioral addictions.

BMC Psychiatry

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Referrals concerning only advice regarding an aid (singular questions) are only included in the total number of referrals collected.

BMC Geriatrics

Box provides a transformative experience by asking us a singular, cathartic question: Are we really free?

Huffington Post

It is the singular question for Arafat as well as for the Israelis.

The New Yorker

There is no singular question at the core of Mutu's work.

The Guardian

Much of the Clinton-Sanders battle was defined by the singular question of how to treat Wall Street: whether the bailout was justified and whether bank regulation went far enough.

The Guardian - Opinion

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — At some point in the coming days, Giants Coach Tom Coughlin plans to find a quiet moment and gather some of his veteran players together to ask them the singular question that will linger for him all winter, spring and summer.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a singular question" to draw attention to a specific issue that requires focused consideration. It's particularly effective when introducing a core problem or challenge.

Common error

Avoid using "singular" excessively in your writing. While it can be effective for emphasis, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or pretentious. Instead, opt for more straightforward alternatives like "key" or "central" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a singular question" functions primarily as a noun phrase, emphasizing the uniqueness or importance of the question being posed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. The phrase often sets the stage for a focused discussion or analysis.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a singular question" is a grammatically sound phrase that effectively emphasizes the importance or uniqueness of a particular question. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English across various contexts, notably news and media, though it appears less frequently in academic or business writing. The phrase is used to highlight a critical point of inquiry, and while it isn't overtly formal, it contributes a level of emphasis that simpler phrases might lack. When using "singular", writers should be mindful of overuse, opting for alternatives like "key" or "central" to maintain clarity and avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique query

Emphasizes the distinct and unparalleled nature of the question.

a key question

Highlights the importance and centrality of the question.

the central issue

Shifts the focus from the question itself to the core problem being addressed.

a pivotal question

Indicates that the question is crucial and could determine future outcomes.

a fundamental question

Suggests that the question explores the basic principles of a subject.

one critical question

Highlights the high-stakes nature of the question.

a solitary inquiry

Emphasizes the isolated and distinct nature of the investigation.

the overriding concern

Focuses on the most significant worry or problem.

a pressing matter

Highlights the urgency and importance of the issue.

the main point of inquiry

Specifies the core area of investigation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "a singular question" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "the central issue", "the key question", or "a fundamental inquiry". These alternatives provide a more elevated tone while retaining the core meaning.

What's the difference between "a singular question" and "a unique question"?

While both phrases emphasize the distinctiveness of a question, "a singular question" often implies that the question is the only one of its kind or of particular importance, whereas "a unique question" simply means it is unusual or uncommon. You could use "a unique query" if you mean that the question is unusual.

Is it correct to use "singular" when referring to a question?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Singular" emphasizes that there is only one question being considered or that the question is of particular importance. However, make sure its usage fits the context of your writing.

What are some less formal alternatives to "a singular question"?

For less formal situations, you could use phrases like "the main question" or "the key thing to ask". These options are more conversational while still highlighting the importance of the question. You can also say the "central issue".