a troubling question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a troubling question' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that makes someone feel anxious or concerned. For example, "When discussing the future of the company, he raised a troubling question about its sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it leads to a troubling question.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was always a troubling question about "Venus in Fur".

The New York Times

These figures confront Brazilians with a troubling question.

The Economist

It does raise a troubling question about how seriously N.I.H. is engaged in the biodefense mission".

The New York Times - Magazine

But the incident raised a troubling question for anyone planning a cruise or tour vacation.

The New York Times - Travel

Clark's hypothesis also raises a troubling question about the future, albeit one he doesn't mention.

The New York Times - Books

His killing, freighted with the themes of a nation at a crossroads, raises a troubling question.

The New York Times

Such actions raise a troubling question about the critics of biotechnology.

The New York Times

Yet the whole enterprise raises a troubling question: is the ability to customize information more important than its accuracy?

The New Yorker

But simply listing these new films raises a troubling question: Are too many Holocaust documentaries now being made?

The New York Times

A troubling question for any society, but especially a capitalist one, is what money can and cannot buy.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a troubling question" to introduce a subject that causes anxiety or raises significant ethical or practical concerns. Be prepared to elaborate on why the question is troubling.

Common error

While effective, "a troubling question" can lose its impact if overused. Vary your language by using alternatives like "a worrying issue" or "a concerning matter" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a troubling question" primarily functions as a noun phrase, with "troubling" acting as a descriptive adjective modifying the noun "question". It introduces a topic that elicits concern or anxiety. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a troubling question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to introduce issues causing concern or anxiety. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness, and numerous examples demonstrate its use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is versatile, it's advisable to use alternatives to prevent overuse. Remember to elaborate on why the question is troubling to maximize its impact. The prevalence of this phrase in authoritative sources underscores its effectiveness in highlighting significant problems and prompting further discussion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a worrying issue

Replaces "question" with "issue", focusing on the problematic nature rather than the inquiry itself.

a concerning matter

Substitutes "question" with "matter", emphasizing the seriousness and potential implications.

a disturbing thought

Focuses on the mental discomfort or anxiety caused by the idea.

a vexing problem

Highlights the difficulty and frustration associated with the issue.

a perplexing dilemma

Emphasizes the confusing and challenging nature of the situation.

a disquieting aspect

Focuses on the unsettling or alarming facet of a situation.

a worrisome development

Highlights the concerning nature of an event or trend.

a grave concern

Emphasizes the serious and significant nature of the concern.

a nagging doubt

Focuses on a persistent and unsettling feeling of uncertainty.

a thorny issue

Highlights the complexity and difficulty in dealing with a particular problem.

FAQs

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

Use "a troubling question" to introduce a query or subject that causes concern or raises significant issues. For example, "The rising unemployment rate raises "a troubling question" about the effectiveness of current economic policies."

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

You can use alternatives like "a worrying issue", "a concerning matter", or "a disturbing thought" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a troubling question" or "a troublesome question"?

"A troubling question" typically refers to a question that causes concern or worry, while "a troublesome question" refers to a question that is difficult to answer or deals with a troublesome issue. The better choice depends on the specific meaning you intend to convey.

What makes a question "troubling"?

A question is "troubling" when it raises concerns about ethical implications, potential negative consequences, or uncertainties about a situation's future. It often elicits anxiety or unease.