an apt question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an apt question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when acknowledging that a question is appropriate or relevant to the topic being discussed. Example: "In response to the recent developments, that is indeed an apt question to consider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

It's an apt question.

The New York Times

"Do you believe in miracles?" It's an apt question and one that hadn't escaped Ravens' cornerback, Jimmy Smith who left the field smiling following their last gasp win.

Independent

"Why would anyone even think of building a road through this pass?" is an apt question for anyone visiting this alpine aerie for the first time.

The New York Times

It's an apt question in any novel, but particularly so in this one, which is told in two voices, a generation and the distance (literal, social, linguistic) from Tunisia to Sweden separating them.

The New York Times - Books

That's an apt question when companies are begging for workers.

Forbes

It's an apt question for the Christmas season.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But the cost question lingers, and it's an especially apt question in light of the current recession.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A more apt question is whether there is a heaven for a cliché, because several cuts on God's Son are begging for funerals".

Wikipedia

Perhaps a more apt question would be: where haven't New Yorkers seen Mr. Rushdie lately?

The New York Times

Perhaps a more apt question, however, would be: Do Celtic want to face having to survive without Rangers?

The New York Times

But it seems like a partly apt question to ask about the highest ranking member of one of the great royal families The House of Windsor.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To ensure clarity and relevance, frame "an apt question" within a context that readers can easily understand. The question should naturally arise from the preceding discussion, avoiding abrupt shifts in topic.

Common error

Avoid using "an apt question" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler phrasing to maintain a natural tone and foster better rapport with your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an apt question" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "question". It serves to characterize the question as being particularly suitable, relevant, or well-timed. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

16%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an apt question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a question that is particularly relevant, suitable, or well-timed within a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While not exceedingly common, the phrase appears in various contexts, including news media and academic writing. When choosing to use the phrase, consider alternatives such as "a relevant question" or "a pertinent question" to add variety to your writing. Be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in informal settings. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for professional and academic discourse. Remember the question should naturally arise from the preceding discussion, avoiding abrupt shifts in topic. When strategically positioned, this phrase encourages deeper reflection and guides the audience to desired conclusions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a relevant question

Replaces "apt" with "relevant", focusing on the question's pertinence to the topic.

a fitting question

Substitutes "apt" with "fitting", emphasizing the question's appropriateness.

a pertinent question

Uses "pertinent" instead of "apt", highlighting the question's direct relation to the matter at hand.

an appropriate question

Replaces "apt" with "appropriate", stressing the question's suitability in the situation.

a well-placed question

Emphasizes that the question was asked at the most suitable time or in the most suitable manner.

a timely question

Focuses on the question's relevance due to the current circumstances or timing.

a germane question

Uses "germane" to indicate the question's close connection to the subject being discussed.

a suitable question

Replaces "apt" with "suitable", indicating the question is well-suited for the occasion.

a well-timed question

Highlights that the question was asked at an opportune moment.

an on-point question

Emphasizes that the question is directly and accurately related to the topic.

FAQs

How can I use "an apt question" in a sentence?

You can use "an apt question" to introduce a relevant or well-timed inquiry. For example, "Given the circumstances, asking "a relevant question" is crucial to understanding the situation."

What are some alternatives to saying "an apt question"?

Alternatives include "a pertinent question", "a fitting question", or "a relevant question", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "an apt question"?

It's appropriate when the question is particularly relevant, insightful, or well-timed in relation to the discussion or situation. It adds a touch of formality and emphasizes the question's significance.

Is there a difference between "an apt question" and "a good question"?

While both phrases indicate the question is valuable, "an apt question" suggests the question is particularly suitable or fitting for the specific context, whereas "a good question" is a more general assessment of its quality.