an obvious question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an obvious question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that seems clear or self-evident to most people. Example: "While some may find it challenging, I believe it's an obvious question that needs to be addressed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All of which raises an obvious question.

Independent

I ask him an obvious question.

Independent

This raises an obvious question.

MIT Technology Review

It begs an obvious question.

The Times

That raises an obvious question: how come?

MIT Technology Review

WHICH leads to an obvious question.

The New York Times

And it raises an obvious question.

The Guardian

There is an obvious question here.

The Guardian - Sport

This remark led to an obvious question.

The New York Times

Which presents an obvious question: why has it been away?

The New York Times - Sports

That's an obvious question, and not the right one.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an obvious question" to introduce a point that seems readily apparent, but still requires exploration or discussion. This can effectively set the stage for deeper analysis or counterarguments.

Common error

Avoid using "an obvious question" when the question is genuinely trivial or requires no further thought. Overusing this phrase can make your writing seem patronizing or lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an obvious question" functions as an introductory element, often used to preface a query that seems self-evident yet requires further examination. As supported by Ludwig, it is used to transition into a more detailed explanation or analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an obvious question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It serves as an effective introductory element to queries that appear straightforward yet warrant further exploration. While its register is generally neutral, careful consideration should be given to the context to avoid stating the genuinely trivial. Alternatives such as "a clear question" or "a straightforward question" can be used depending on the desired nuance. The phrase is most prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a self-evident question

Replaces 'obvious' with 'self-evident', emphasizing the question's inherent clarity.

a clear question

Uses 'clear' instead of 'obvious', focusing on the lack of ambiguity in the question.

a straightforward question

Emphasizes the simplicity and directness of the question.

a simple question

Highlights the lack of complexity involved in the question.

a plain question

Focuses on the unadorned and easily understood nature of the question.

a patent question

Similar to 'obvious', but may suggest a more demonstrable or easily proven aspect.

an undeniable question

Emphasizes that the question cannot be reasonably disputed.

an easily answered question

Highlights the easiness to formulate and answer the question.

the question that springs to mind

Refers to a question which comes to mind easily.

the elephant in the room

This idiom refers to the most important or obvious problem that is being consciously avoided.

FAQs

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

You can use "an obvious question" to introduce a query that seems self-evident but needs further discussion. For example: "Given the current economic climate, "an obvious question" is whether we can afford this investment."

What are some alternatives to "an obvious question"?

Alternatives include "a clear question", "a straightforward question", or "a simple question". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

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

It's appropriate when you want to acknowledge that a question is seemingly apparent, but still warrants exploration or a detailed answer. It's often used to lead into a more complex discussion or analysis.

Is it ever wrong to use "an obvious question"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if the question truly requires no thought or if it's used condescendingly. Ensure the question, while seemingly obvious, actually serves a purpose in your writing.