a standard question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a standard question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a commonly asked question in a specific context, such as surveys, interviews, or discussions. Example: "During the interview, the candidate was asked a standard question about their previous work experience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Viability is a standard question in politics.

The New York Times

Finally, in hope of a bit of self-revelation, a standard question: Any personal goals?

The New York Times - Arts

"Now it's become a standard question, what are you running in?" he said.

The New York Times - Sports

NAME WITHHELD, NEW JERSEY This isn't a standard question about lending and borrowing.

The New York Times - Magazine

It's a standard question, but I wondered which novels Aldiss was most proud of and which had been unfairly neglected.

The Guardian - Books

Then, asked what he was wearing -- a standard question for the ladies -- he said with a smile, "Boxers".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

We asked Group A the standard question on which party would be best at handling the issue that the respondent identified as being the most important.

Electoral Studies

Since this is such a stock standard question, it shouldn't come as a surprise to you.

WikiHow

Q: It's a pretty standard question these days when it comes to the women's game.

The New York Times

Asking what someone does for work is a pretty standard question.

Forbes

"Any possibility you could be pregnant?" A fair, standard question.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a standard question", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the question standard. For example, specify if it's standard within a particular field, process, or survey.

Common error

Avoid using "a standard question" without providing context. If the reader doesn't understand why the question is considered standard, the phrase loses its impact and can become confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a standard question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows it's used to describe an inquiry that is commonplace or routine within a specific context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

38%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a standard question" is a commonly used phrase to denote an inquiry that is routine or typical within a specific context. As evidenced by the Ludwig AI analysis, this phrase is grammatically sound and versatile, appearing frequently in news articles, scientific publications, and academic writings. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, it's important to provide sufficient context so the reader understands why the question is considered standard. Alternatives such as "a typical question" or "a common question" can be used to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical question

Replaces "standard" with "typical", suggesting a common or usual question.

a common question

Substitutes "standard" with "common", indicating a frequently asked question.

a usual question

Uses "usual" instead of "standard", highlighting the ordinary nature of the question.

a routine inquiry

Replaces the entire phrase, focusing on the habitual or regular nature of the question.

a frequently asked question

Emphasizes the frequency with which the question is posed.

a stock question

Employs "stock" to suggest a question that is regularly used or readily available.

a conventional question

Replaces "standard" with "conventional", indicating a question that follows accepted norms.

a run-of-the-mill question

Highlights the ordinariness and lack of uniqueness of the question.

a textbook question

Suggests the question is basic or fundamental, like something found in a textbook.

a boilerplate question

Implies the question is pre-prepared and used without much variation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a standard question" to refer to a common or typical inquiry in a specific context. For example, "The interviewer asked "a standard question" about my previous work experience".

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

You can use alternatives like "a typical question", "a common question", or "a routine inquiry" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a standard question"?

It's appropriate to use "a standard question" when referring to an inquiry that is commonly asked or expected within a particular situation or field. This implies that the question is not unique and is part of a normal procedure.

What's the difference between "a standard question" and "a typical question"?

While both phrases are similar, "a standard question" often implies that the question is part of a set procedure or recognized norm, whereas "a typical question" simply means it is commonly asked.