are a question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are a question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the nature of something that poses an inquiry or seeks information. Example: "These statements are a question of ethics that we must address."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

They are a question of civic imagination.

The Guardian

Political disputes between Taiwan and the mainland also are a question mark going forward.

The New York Times

Library budgets are not simply a question of money; they are a question of priorities.

The New York Times

Squinzi said: Next year's elections are a question mark right now.

The Guardian - Business

Favorite outfit: I feel comfortable in crewnecks, and for me clothes are a question of comfort.

The New York Times - Magazine

The new Tea Party Republicans who will join the next Congress are a question mark when it comes to trade.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

That is a question".

The New York Times - Arts

It's a question".

The New York Times

Now there's a question.

The Guardian - Sport

But here's a question.

Independent

"That is a question mark.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are a question" to frame a topic as an open inquiry, inviting further exploration or discussion. For example, "The long-term effects of climate change are a question that scientists are actively investigating."

Common error

Avoid using "is a question" when referring to multiple items or subjects. Ensure subject-verb agreement by using "are a question" when discussing plural nouns or concepts. For instance, use "These proposals are a question of ethics" instead of "These proposals is a question of ethics".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are a question" functions primarily as a predicate nominative, linking a subject to a noun phrase that renames or describes it. It indicates that something is essentially an open inquiry, problem, or topic needing investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "are a question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that functions to frame a subject as an open inquiry or problem. As noted by Ludwig AI, its acceptability is high, and its purpose is to invite further exploration and discussion. It is commonly found in news and media, as well as scientific and business contexts. When writing, ensure subject-verb agreement and avoid misuse with singular nouns. Alternatives like "pose a question" or "constitute a question" can provide nuanced variations. By understanding the phrase's function and usage, writers can effectively employ it to introduce topics requiring analysis and resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

constitute a question

Indicates that something forms or represents a question that needs to be addressed.

represent a question

Similar to "constitute a question", but emphasizes the representation aspect.

pose a question

Focuses on the act of raising a question or issue.

raise a question

Similar to "pose a question", emphasizing the act of bringing up a point for consideration.

present a question

Highlights the presentation of a question for analysis or discussion.

are an issue

Indicates that something is a problem or concern that needs attention.

are a matter of debate

Emphasizes that something is subject to discussion and differing opinions.

are a point of contention

Highlights that something is a cause of disagreement or dispute.

are uncertain

Implies doubt or lack of clarity about something.

remain unresolved

Indicates that something has not been settled or decided.

FAQs

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

Use "are a question" to introduce something as an open inquiry. For instance, "The ethical implications of AI are a question that demands careful consideration".

What can I say instead of "are a question"?

You can use alternatives like "pose a question", "raise a question", or "constitute a question" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is a question" or "are a question"?

"Are a question" is used with plural subjects, while "is a question" is used with singular subjects. For example, "These issues are a question of priorities", but "This issue is a question of priorities".

What's the difference between "are a question" and "are an issue"?

"Are a question" suggests an inquiry or something to be explored, while "are an issue" indicates a problem or concern that needs to be addressed. They are related but not interchangeable.