an honest question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an honest question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that your question is sincere and not intended to provoke or offend. Example: "I have an honest question about the project's timeline that I hope you can clarify."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

(That's an honest question).

The New Yorker

He was giving an honest answer to an honest question.

The New York Times - Sports

"Let's ask an honest question: Do we have a multiparty system?

The New York Times

"It was an honest question and I think deserved an answer".

The New York Times

Sometimes, over pizza, a good friend who means well asks an honest question that reminds you how old you are.

The New York Times

And maybe things are only truly funny if they are connected to an honest question or emotion.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Before the game against Philadelphia at Nassau Coliseum tonight, he invited about 100 early arrivals into a conference room for an honest question-and-answer session in which he good-naturedly asked some fans to stop sending him e-mail messages calling him "stupid".

The New York Times - Sports

That is meant as a serious, honest question, not a snap way of dismissing a remarkable document, brimming with profound ideas and moral passion and issued at a time when it could hardly be more relevant.

The New York Times

This is what I'm going to do" But you know I asked myself a very honest question when the idea for an audio book came.

Huffington Post

What's that?" A good, honest question, amigo.

TechCrunch

It is a refreshingly honest question.

Unicef

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an honest question" to preface an inquiry when you want to assure the recipient of your sincerity, especially if the topic is sensitive or potentially contentious.

Common error

Avoid using "an honest question" merely as a conversational filler. Ensure the question genuinely seeks information or clarification and isn't simply a rhetorical device or a way to introduce a statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an honest question" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence, often introducing or framing a subsequent inquiry. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which identifies it as grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

93%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an honest question" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that serves to emphasize the sincerity of an inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, its usage spans from neutral to professional registers. To avoid overuse, consider alternatives like "a sincere inquiry" or "a genuine question". Utilizing this phrase effectively sets the stage for open and truthful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sincere inquiry

This alternative emphasizes the genuineness of the question, focusing on the speaker's true intentions.

a genuine question

This emphasizes the authenticity and lack of pretense in the inquiry.

a frank question

This suggests the question is direct and possibly blunt, without trying to soften the impact.

a straightforward question

This highlights the simplicity and directness of the question, avoiding ambiguity.

a candid question

This suggests the question is open and sincere, without holding back any relevant information.

a legitimate question

This emphasizes the validity and appropriateness of the question within the given context.

a fair question

This suggests that the question is unbiased and considers all sides of the issue.

a truthful question

This emphasizes the alignment of the question with the speaker's true beliefs and understanding.

a serious question

This highlights the importance and weight of the question being asked.

a real question

This emphasizes that the question is not rhetorical or superficial, but one that truly seeks an answer.

FAQs

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

You can use "an honest question" to introduce a sincere inquiry, such as, "I have "an honest question" about the budget for next year's project."

What can I say instead of "an honest question"?

You can use alternatives like "a sincere inquiry", "a genuine question", or "a frank question" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "an honest question"?

While all questions ideally should be honest, using the phrase ""an honest question"" can emphasize your sincerity, particularly when broaching a sensitive or controversial topic.

What's the difference between "an honest question" and "a difficult question"?

"An honest question" emphasizes the sincerity of the inquiry, while "a difficult question" highlights the complexity or challenge in answering it. They focus on different aspects of the question itself.