a wider question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wider question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a broader or more general issue that encompasses a specific topic or concern. Example: "While we can address the immediate problem, we must also consider a wider question about the implications of our actions on future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

The campaign, however, illuminates a wider question.

The Times

"I think there's a wider question.

The Guardian

"There's a wider question that this whole affair raises, which is, where does it stop?

Independent

I had no quick and easy answer, and that lack raised a wider question.

The Guardian

We are left with a wider question of what are our prisons for.

The Guardian - Opinion

For me, this idea of a two-way street taps into a wider question about linguistic influence and evolution.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Having such a wide question as in the present study might have led to underreporting of newer screen time activities in 2008 compared with 2001, such as homework, chatting, internet gaming, use of cell phones, etc.

BMC Public Health

"Those shells represent a far wider question".

The New York Times

But it illustrates a much wider question, and one that is eerily familiar.

Independent

"This opens up a much wider question, namely what is the future of the whole VHT movement in Uganda?" says Alistair Boyd, a former board chairman of Amref UK. "NGOs are all struggling with what happens when the NGO leaves.

The Guardian

"But there is a much wider question about how dissenting voices in modern, pluralist society are valued and heard in public debate, and the rubbishing in the public arena of Christian and biblical worldviews.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a wider question" to introduce a broader, more encompassing inquiry that stems from a specific issue. It's effective for transitioning from details to overarching implications.

Common error

Avoid using "a wider question" simply as a transition phrase without genuinely expanding the scope of the discussion. Ensure the subsequent question truly broadens the perspective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wider question" functions as an introductory element, typically used to broaden the scope of a discussion or argument. Based on Ludwig AI analysis, it helps transition from specific details to more encompassing considerations, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wider question" serves as a valuable tool for expanding the scope of a discussion and prompting deeper exploration of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure that it genuinely broadens the perspective and avoids being a mere filler. Alternatives such as "a broader perspective" or "a more general issue" can be used depending on the context. Remember to use "a wider question" to move beyond specific details to more encompassing considerations, encouraging a comprehensive understanding of the subject at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a broader perspective

Focuses on the angle of view rather than the explicit question.

a larger context

Emphasizes the surrounding circumstances rather than the inquiry itself.

a more general issue

Highlights the widespread nature of the problem, not specifically a question.

a bigger picture

Uses a metaphorical expression for a complete overview.

a more comprehensive view

Focuses on the thoroughness and inclusivity of the overview.

a far-reaching implication

Highlights the extent of the consequence or impact, not necessarily a question.

a fundamental consideration

Stresses the basic and essential aspects of the matter.

an overarching theme

Points to a recurring idea or subject that underlies a discussion.

a deeper exploration

Focuses on digging deeper into the topic at hand.

a significant aspect

Highlights the importance of a certain element to the whole discussion.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce "a wider question" in my writing?

Begin by addressing a specific issue or problem, and then use "a wider question" to transition into a broader, more encompassing inquiry related to the initial topic.

What are some alternatives to using "a wider question"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "a broader perspective", "a more general issue", or "a larger context".

When is it appropriate to use "a wider question" in academic writing?

It's appropriate when you want to move from a specific research finding or observation to a more general theoretical or societal implication. Use it to frame the significance of your work.

Is "a wider question" interchangeable with "the wider question"?

While similar, "a wider question" suggests introducing a broader inquiry, whereas "the wider question" implies referencing a previously established or commonly known broader issue.