area in question

USAGE SUMMARY

"area in question" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a particular topic or area of interest. For example, "The mayor has been asked to provide an explanation for the rising crime rate in the area in question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

China has objected, since it claims the area in question.

The Economist

The area in question borders eastern Kosovo and is patrolled by American troops.

The New York Times

There are now many gaps along the East River, including the area in question.

The New York Times

The area in question on the space station is prone to leaks.

The Guardian

No such briefs were forthcoming, with the area in question instead, and belatedly, given to Hibs.

The Guardian - Sport

Their recommendations are sent to a middle management interdepartmental committee from the area in question.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Yet in all of this, one area in question is the audience: how do we grow it?

BBC

The 'area in question' is characterized by sand dunes and shrub brush species and is discussed in the 'Results' section.

Ecological Processes

Also called the bony labyrinth, the area in question is a set of three twisting cavities, one oriented along each axis of the body.

Science Magazine

We note an area in question associated with these raster surfaces (Figure 3).

Ecological Processes

Initially, of course, the subjects just feel patterns of gentle tickling sensations spreading over the area in question, while the camera scans what is in front of them.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "area in question", ensure the context clearly establishes what area you are referring to, especially if it's not physically defined. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid using "area in question" without a clear antecedent. If the reader isn't immediately aware of what area you're referencing, provide a brief description or rephrase for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "area in question" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as a subject complement or an object of a preposition, identifying a specific location or region that is under consideration or discussion. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "area in question" is a commonly used noun phrase that serves to identify a specific location or topic under consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While generally neutral in tone, it often leans towards a professional register, making it suitable for formal communication. To ensure clarity, it's crucial to provide a clear antecedent when using this phrase. Alternative phrases, such as "subject at hand" or "matter in question", can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject at hand

Focuses on the topic being discussed, rather than a physical space.

matter in question

Emphasizes the issue or problem being considered.

region under consideration

Highlights the process of evaluating or thinking about a specific location.

relevant location

Directly points to the significance of the place.

specific area

Is a more general way to refer to a location, lacking the nuance of a problem or doubt.

locus in question

A more formal or technical way to refer to the place or location.

site under discussion

Indicates that the location is being talked about or debated.

aforementioned area

Refers back to a place that has been previously mentioned.

particular zone

Highlights the zoning or demarcation of that specific place.

designated area

Implies that a place has been officially selected for a purpose.

FAQs

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

Use "area in question" to refer to a specific location or topic that has already been mentioned or is the focus of discussion. For example, "The study focused on the effects of pollution in the "area in question"."

What can I say instead of "area in question"?

You can use alternatives like "subject at hand", "matter in question", or "relevant location" depending on the context.

Is it ever wrong to use "area in question"?

While grammatically correct, using "area in question" can be confusing if the specific area hasn't been clearly defined beforehand. Ensure there is a clear antecedent or specify the area to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "area in question" and "specific area"?

"Area in question" often implies there's some uncertainty, debate, or particular relevance to the specified area. "Specific area", is a more neutral and direct reference to a particular location.