abiding question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "abiding question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a question that remains relevant or persistent over time, often in discussions or debates. Example: "The abiding question in our society is how to balance technological advancement with ethical considerations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

That was the abiding question and Ms. Carey and collaborators are providing the answer.

The New York Times

An abiding question has become ever more prevalent for business schools – are executive education clients getting meaningful, long-term value for their significant investments?

The International Journal of Management Education

The abiding question is: Will hybridization further erode biodiversity, preserve it, augment it — or some combination of all three?

The New York Times - Magazine

The abiding question with mystery composers is whether we really need to know more than we're told.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet all the old obstacles have surfaced once again, not least the abiding question: what's it all about?

The Guardian - Music

But it's an abiding question with the movies, not just a summer silliness: when does a daydream turn into an irresistible impulse?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Alongside these structural issues are the abiding questions of increased expectations.

The New York Times - Arts

The abiding questions, though, were: How did the egg reprogram the adult cell's chromosomes?

The New York Times - Science

These abiding questions are the central conceit of Paris Versus New York: A Tally of Two Cities, the witty Web site by the Parisian graphic designer Vahram Muratyan.

The New York Times

These abiding questions are the central conceit of Paris Versus New York: A Tally of Two Cities, the Web site by the Parisian graphic designer Vahram Muratyan.

The New York Times

To what extent the private individual can be separated from the culture that spawned them is one of the abiding questions thrown up by Jim Shaw's work.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "abiding question", provide context to clarify why the question is enduring and significant. This enhances the impact of your statement and demonstrates thoughtful consideration of the subject matter.

Common error

Avoid using "abiding question" for issues that are merely current or transient. This phrase is best reserved for questions that have historical depth or continue to challenge contemporary understanding.

Linguistic Context

Abiding question functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a significant issue that remains unresolved, prompting further investigation or discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "abiding question" is a valid and useful expression for referring to a question that remains relevant or persistent over time. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's most commonly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts. It is deemed grammatically correct and suitable for formal settings. Related phrases include "persistent question" and "enduring question". When using the phrase, ensure it's applied to topics with historical depth rather than transient issues, enhancing the impact and demonstrating thoughtful consideration. The phrase serves to frame long-standing and perpetually relevant topics that invite deeper thought and analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Persistent question

Emphasizes the continuing nature of the question.

Enduring question

Highlights the lasting relevance of the question.

Perennial question

Stresses the recurring nature of the question across time.

Fundamental question

Focuses on the foundational importance of the question.

Underlying question

Indicates the question is a core issue beneath the surface.

Overarching question

Suggests the question is comprehensive and all-encompassing.

Central question

Emphasizes the question's key position within a topic.

Unresolved question

Highlights that the question has not been answered.

Lingering question

Suggests the question remains present and unresolved.

Recurring question

Highlights the question's tendency to come up repeatedly.

FAQs

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

The phrase "abiding question" is used to refer to a question that is relevant or persistent over time, often in academic, scientific or philosophical debates. For instance, you could say, "The "central abiding question" in philosophy is the nature of existence."

What's a good alternative to "abiding question"?

Alternatives include "persistent question", "enduring question", or "perennial question", each emphasizing the long-lasting nature of the inquiry.

Is "abiding question" formal or informal?

"Abiding question" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for academic writing, journalistic pieces, and professional discussions. Less formal alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings.

What makes a question an "abiding question"?

An "abiding question" is one that continues to be relevant and important over a long period, often because it touches on fundamental aspects of human existence, knowledge, or values. It typically lacks a simple or definitive answer.