asked a question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "asked a question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of inquiring or seeking information from someone. Example: "During the meeting, she asked a question about the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He asked a question.

The New Yorker

Selim asked a question.

The New Yorker

Finally, someone else asked a question.

The New Yorker

I never even asked a question".

The New York Times - Arts

No one asked a question.

The New York Times - Magazine

I was asked a question.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

She asks a question.

The New York Times

Can I ask a question?

The New York Times - Magazine

Ask a question about it.

The New York Times

Just ask a question.

The Washington Post

You ask a question.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "asked a question" in situations where you want to clearly and directly state that someone inquired about something. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While it's tempting to use more elaborate phrasing, sticking with "asked a question" ensures clarity. Overly complex alternatives can sometimes obscure the meaning or sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "asked a question" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of seeking information. The phrase's function is straightforward and commonly understood as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "asked a question" is a common and grammatically correct verbal phrase used to describe the act of seeking information. According to Ludwig, it is widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media, as well as more informal contexts. While several alternatives exist, such as "inquired" or "posed a query", sticking with "asked a question" ensures clarity in most situations. The phrase maintains a neutral register and effectively serves the purpose of eliciting information or initiating discussion. Ludwig confirms that it is suitable for both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Inquired

Focuses on the act of seeking information formally.

Enquired

A more formal synonym for asked, emphasizing the act of seeking information.

Posed a query

Emphasizes the formal presentation of a question.

Put forward a question

Describes the act of officially submitting a question for consideration.

Raised an issue

Highlights the act of bringing up a point for discussion, which may involve a question.

Formulated a question

Stresses the careful construction and articulation of a question.

Queried

Refers to asking a question, often with a sense of doubt or skepticism.

Sought clarification

Implies a need for better understanding through questioning.

Ventured a question

Indicates asking a question with some hesitation or uncertainty.

Probed

Suggests a thorough and often persistent questioning to uncover details.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "asked a question"?

You can use alternatives like "inquired", "posed a query", or "sought clarification" depending on the context.

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

Here's an example: "During the meeting, she "asked a question" about the project's budget."

Is it better to use "asked a question" or "posed a question"?

Both "asked a question" and "posed a question" are correct. "Posed a question" is often seen as slightly more formal, while "asked a question" is more neutral and versatile.

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

"Asked a question" refers specifically to making an inquiry. "Raised an issue" implies bringing up a topic for discussion, which may or may not involve a direct question.