a tangled question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a tangled question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is complex, confusing, or difficult to answer due to its intricacies. Example: "The topic of climate change raises a tangled question about the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Teasing out a Tangled Question: How did mammals become monogamous?

Harvard University

Next Next post: Teasing out a Tangled Question: How did mammals become monogamous?

Harvard University

Parents want their genes to be passed on to the next generation, and having more offspring increases the likelihood that … Continue reading Teasing out a Tangled Question: How did mammals become monogamous?

Harvard University

How suicide bombing then got adopted as a weapon by the Sunni Muslims of Palestine and the Arabian Peninsula -- and then by a multinational consortium drawing in Egyptians, Algerians, Moroccans and Kenyans that found its prime targets on American soil -- is a tangled question for scholars.

The New York Times - Magazine

The delay gives the book additional impact: it arrives at a moment when Americans are again confronting a tangled question of war and peace -- how to remove a dangerous enemy from Iraq and build in its place what never existed there before, a stable democracy posing no threat to its neighbors.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

In 1926, in the case of Myers v. United States, the Supreme Court handed down an opinion on the tangled question of the president's power to remove officials from office that, in effect, vindicated the position Johnson had taken, declaring the Tenure of Office Act unconstitutional.

Britannica

Not only did that not settle the debate, but it saved for another day the tangled question of what should come next.

The New York Times

The tangled question of forests has dogged climate negotiations for years.

Los Angeles Times

The news opens not only another chapter in Mr. Haggard's story, but also a whole new set of tangled questions about what was known of the pastor's life.

The New York Times

Ill disposed toward those on our side who question our military interventions abroad, Keegan proves to be an inadequate guide to the tangled questions that have arisen from the decision to invade the Middle East in 2003.

The New York Times - Books

Michael Jackson may be being buried today, but the tangled questions surrounding his legacy are still a long way from being laid to rest.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a tangled question", ensure the context clearly establishes the complexity and difficulty of the issue being discussed. Avoid using it for simple or easily resolvable matters.

Common error

Avoid using "a tangled question" repeatedly in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound cliché. Vary your descriptions of complex issues for a more engaging and sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a tangled question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides examples where it introduces complex problems or inquiries needing careful consideration.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a tangled question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a complex or confusing issue. Ludwig identifies it as having a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, and appearing most frequently in news and academic sources. While not overly common, its use is appropriate when emphasizing the intricate nature of a problem. When using the phrase, ensure that the complexity of the issue is clear and that you avoid overuse to maintain writing clarity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a difficult question

A more straightforward way of expressing the challenge in answering.

a complex issue

Focuses on the multifaceted nature of the problem.

a complicated matter

Emphasizes the intricate details involved.

a multifaceted problem

Highlights the many different aspects and angles of the issue.

a thorny problem

Highlights the challenging and potentially painful aspects of the problem.

an intricate problem

Highlights the finely detailed and complex nature of the issue.

a perplexing inquiry

Focuses on the confusing and puzzling nature of the question.

a convoluted issue

Emphasizes the intricate and complex nature of the problem, often suggesting it's unnecessarily complicated.

a knotty question

Suggests a problem that is difficult to untangle or resolve.

a baffling inquiry

Focuses on the mind-puzzling and incomprehensible nature of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "a tangled question" to describe an issue that is complex and difficult to resolve. For example: "The issue of healthcare reform presents "a tangled question" about access and affordability".

What is the difference between "a tangled question" and "a complex question"?

"A tangled question" implies confusion and difficulty in understanding the issue, whereas "a complex question" simply suggests that the issue has many parts or aspects.

What are some synonyms for "a tangled question"?

Alternatives include "a difficult question", "a complex issue", or "a complicated matter". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a tangled question" in formal writing?

Yes, "a tangled question" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing issues that are genuinely perplexing or intricate. However, consider whether a more direct phrase like "a complex question" would be clearer in your specific context.