a well-timed question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a well-timed question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a question that is asked at an appropriate or opportune moment, often leading to a productive discussion or insight. Example: "During the meeting, Sarah asked a well-timed question that clarified the project's objectives for everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A well-timed question to the sommelier.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

His latest research piece on Monday asked the well-timed question "Are Things That Good?" on a day when the Dow Jones industrial average fell 129.71 points, its biggest drop in more than a month.

The New York Times

It was well-timed question, since the annual Tupper Awards, as they've come to be known locally, were handed out Monday evening by the La Cañada Flintridge Coordinating Council.

Los Angeles Times

Though you don't need to make it seem like an interrogation, just a few simple well-timed questions can make the person much more likely to connect with you.

WikiHow

There's no question that a well-timed intervention from the likes of Juliette Binoche can really give a boost to the work of human rights defenders around the world". When La Binoche – as she is known in France – was young, her pretty sweetness earned her the nickname of La Brioche.

The Guardian - Film

You can't stop Father Time, even with a well-timed Harlem Shake routine.

Vice

Profound moral questions alternate with deadpan intrusions of mock-naïve common sense, a well-timed colloquial counterpoint that also recalls Twain (and survives in Margaret Jull Costa's effective translation).

The New York Times - Books

A well-timed pause.

The Guardian - Books

A well-timed arm bar.

The New York Times - Arts

Talk about a well-timed opening.

The New York Times

Enter Rudy with a well-timed endorsement.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a well-timed question" to highlight the strategic importance of asking a question at the most effective moment to achieve a desired outcome, such as clarifying a complex issue or prompting insightful discussion.

Common error

While "a well-timed question" is generally acceptable, be mindful of its formality. In casual conversation, consider using simpler alternatives like "a good question" or "a timely query" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a well-timed question" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "well-timed" modifies the noun "question". It describes a question that is asked at the most suitable or advantageous moment, enhancing its impact and relevance, as indicated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a well-timed question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a question asked at an opportune moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often employed to emphasize the strategic importance and effectiveness of questioning. While versatile, it's most prevalent in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register. When aiming for similar effect, consider alternatives such as "an opportune inquiry" or "a timely question".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an opportune inquiry

Replaces 'well-timed' with 'opportune', emphasizing the favorable circumstance of the question.

a timely question

Replaces 'well-timed' with 'timely', highlighting the relevance of the question to the current moment.

a pertinent query

Replaces 'well-timed' with 'pertinent', focusing on the relevance of the question to the matter at hand.

an appropriate question

Replaces 'well-timed' with 'appropriate', suggesting the question is suitable for the context.

an insightful question at the right moment

Adds 'insightful' to emphasize the depth of the question and rephrases 'well-timed' to specify the importance of the right moment.

a strategically posed question

Replaces 'well-timed' with 'strategically posed', emphasizing the deliberate and calculated nature of the question.

a question asked at the perfect moment

Expands on 'well-timed' to explicitly state the perfect timing of the question.

a question with impeccable timing

Uses 'impeccable timing' to convey the flawless nature of the question's timing.

a question delivered with perfect cadence

Focuses on the manner of delivery alongside the perfect timing.

an effectively posed question

Focuses on the effectiveness as a result of being timely.

FAQs

How can "a well-timed question" improve a conversation?

A well-timed question can steer the conversation, clarify points, and encourage deeper engagement. It can also create opportunities for further discussion and understanding.

What's the difference between "a well-timed question" and "a pertinent query"?

"A well-timed question" focuses on the timing of the question, while "a pertinent query" emphasizes the relevance and appropriateness of the question to the specific situation. The two are often used interchangeably.

When is it best to ask "a well-timed question"?

It is best to ask "a well-timed question" when the audience is most receptive, when the information is most relevant, or when the question can significantly contribute to the discussion's progress. Consider the context and the potential impact of your question before asking.

What are some alternatives to "a well-timed question"?

You can use alternatives such as "an opportune inquiry", "a timely question", or "a strategically posed question", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.