a superfluous question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a superfluous question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a question that is unnecessary or redundant in a given context. Example: "During the meeting, she asked a superfluous question that had already been answered earlier."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It would seem like a superfluous question, but the answer isn't so simple, as the headlines these days seem to prove.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Because almost all of the artists I met on that journey, the one question they could never answer was, 'Why do you do it?' That seemed to be a completely superfluous question – it was like they had to do it, and through doing it they would find some peace and contentment.

The Guardian - Arts

Sure, it would be possible to construct this whole review out of questions, but it would also be vaguely annoying, a flaunting of a superfluous skill.

The New York Times - Books

"It's a superfluous expense".

The New York Times

It is a superfluous piece of evidence.

Yale University

This, however, is a superfluous fact.

The New York Times - Magazine

Rarely did he use a superfluous word.

The New York Times

Turgenev called Ivanov a "superfluous man".

The New York Times

Their verbiage sustains a superfluous metaphysical apparatus.

The Guardian - Arts

It became a superfluous and impossible task".

The New York Times

Each clue contained a superfluous word*.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a superfluous question" when you want to emphasize that a question is entirely unnecessary because the answer is already known, has been previously stated, or is otherwise obvious from the context.

Common error

Avoid using "a superfluous question" too frequently in formal or business writing, as it can sometimes come across as dismissive or condescending. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "an unnecessary question" or "an irrelevant inquiry".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a superfluous question" functions as a noun phrase, with "superfluous" acting as an adjective that modifies "question". It indicates that the question being asked is unnecessary or redundant. Ludwig AI validates the grammatical correctness of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a superfluous question" is grammatically correct and functions as a noun phrase indicating an unnecessary or redundant inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is best used to point out the obviousness of a question or express mild annoyance. While the phrase appears across various contexts, it is more common in news, academic, and scientific writing. To avoid sounding overly critical in formal settings, consider using alternatives such as "an unnecessary question" or "a redundant question". The frequency of this phrase is considered rare.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unnecessary question

Emphasizes the lack of need for the question.

a redundant question

Highlights that the question repeats information already known.

a needless question

Similar to unnecessary, but with a slightly stronger emphasis on avoidability.

an irrelevant question

Indicates the question is not pertinent to the current topic.

a pointless question

Stresses the lack of purpose or value in asking the question.

a repetitive question

Highlights that the question has been asked multiple times.

a gratuitous question

Suggests the question was excessive or unwarranted.

a trivial question

Suggests the question is unimportant or insignificant.

a moot question

Indicates the question is no longer relevant or practical.

a rhetorical question

Indicates that no answer is expected because the answer is obvious or implied.

FAQs

What does "a superfluous question" mean?

The phrase "a superfluous question" refers to a question that is unnecessary or redundant, often because the answer is already known or implied.

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

You might say, "Asking whether the project is on track at this point is "a superfluous question", given the detailed progress reports we've been receiving."

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

You can use alternatives like "an unnecessary question", "a redundant question", or "an irrelevant question depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to describe something as "superfluous"?

The term "superfluous" is appropriate when describing something that is beyond what is necessary, useful, or sufficient. It implies that the thing in question could be removed without detracting from the overall purpose or effect.