an open question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an open question" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to refer to a question that does not have one clear-cut answer. For example, "Is courage the most important quality in a leader?" is an open question.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's an open question.

The New York Times

That's an open question.

The New York Times

It seems an open question.

The New York Times - Arts

It remains an open question.

The Economist

It is an open question.

The Economist

What happens next is an open question.

The New York Times

For Hassabis, this is "an open question".

The New Yorker

Whether he succeeds is an open question.

The New York Times

And her future remains an open question.

The New York Times

Intellectual property is also an open question.

The New York Times

That is still an open question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an open question" to introduce a topic where multiple viewpoints exist or the answer is not definitively known. It's effective for framing discussions or research inquiries.

Common error

Avoid using "an open question" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "unresolved issue" or "matter of debate" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an open question" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies a state of uncertainty or unresolved inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms its usability by the multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an open question" is a versatile phrase used to denote uncertainty and invite further exploration. As Ludwig AI's analysis confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used across contexts such as news, science, and business. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse audiences, and while alternatives exist, understanding its specific nuance—implying continued possibility for discussion—is key to effective communication. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid repetition and maintain clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unanswered question

Focuses on the lack of response or resolution to a query.

yet to be determined

Emphasizes that the outcome or answer is not yet known.

remains to be seen

Highlights the uncertainty of future events or outcomes.

a pending question

Implies that the question is waiting for an answer or decision.

up for debate

Indicates that the topic is currently being discussed and considered.

unsettled issue

Emphasizes that the matter is not yet resolved or agreed upon.

still unresolved

Focuses on the lack of a solution or decision.

a matter of debate

Highlights the contentious nature of the issue, emphasizing disagreement.

subject to speculation

Indicates that the topic is being guessed or conjectured about.

a moot point

Suggests the issue is no longer relevant or practical.

FAQs

How do I use "an open question" in a sentence?

Use "an open question" to introduce topics where the answer is not yet known or is subject to debate. For example, "Whether the new policy will succeed remains "an open question"".

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

You can use alternatives like "unanswered question", "matter of debate", or "yet to be determined" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "an unanswered question" or "an open question"?

Both "an unanswered question" and "an open question" are correct, but "an open question" often implies that discussion or further investigation is possible, while "an unanswered question" may simply indicate that a question hasn't been answered yet.

What is the nuance between ""an open question"" and "a closed question"?

"An open question" suggests that multiple answers or perspectives are valid or possible. "A closed question" implies that there's a specific, often simple, answer.