back to the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "back to the question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to redirect the conversation or discussion to the original question that was posed. Example: "Before we move on to the next topic, let's go back to the question of how we can improve our marketing strategy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So, back to the question.

The New Yorker

But back to the question posed?

The Guardian - Sport

And so, back to the question: Fire this guy?

The New York Times

"It comes back to the question of consent.

The New York Times

Nadia kept coming back to the question of Palestine.

The New Yorker

Yet this comes back to the question of scale.

Independent

Which brings us back to the question of those axes.

Independent

Which brings us back to the question of family fallout.

The New York Times

Which brings us back to the question of meaning.

The Guardian - Books

Which brings us back to the question of performance style.

The New York Times - Arts

Getting back to the question of Harvey Pitt. A. Yes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "back to the question" in writing, ensure that the original question has been clearly stated earlier in the text. This helps to avoid confusion and ensures the reader understands the point of reference.

Common error

Avoid using "back to the question" if the question you're referring to hasn't been explicitly stated or is vague. This can confuse your audience. Instead, rephrase the question for clarity, or provide sufficient context before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back to the question" primarily functions as a discourse marker. It serves to signal a return to a previously mentioned topic or inquiry, effectively guiding the conversation or text back to its original focus. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "back to the question" is a versatile and frequently used phrase to signal a return to a previously discussed topic, as affirmed by Ludwig. Its primary function is to refocus attention and steer conversations or writing back to the main point. The phrase holds a neutral register, making it suitable for a wide range of contexts, especially in news and media. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, ensuring writers can confidently employ it to enhance clarity and maintain focus in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

returning to the question

This phrase is a direct synonym, simply replacing "back" with "returning", maintaining the same meaning and grammatical structure.

revisiting the question

This alternative emphasizes the act of examining the question again, suggesting a previous discussion occurred.

to return to the question

This phrasing is slightly more formal and emphasizes a deliberate shift back to the topic.

let's get back to the question

This option is more conversational, inviting the listener or reader to refocus on the original point.

going back to the question

This alternative phrase is similar, but emphasizes the action of reverting attention.

to address the question again

This phrase shifts the focus to addressing or dealing with the query, rather than simply returning to it.

to refocus on the question

This phrase highlights the need to concentrate again on the original question.

coming back to the original question

This alternative specifies that the question was the starting point, underlining the return to its origins.

in regard to the question

This phrase is less direct, suggesting a broader consideration of the topic.

turning back to the question

This alternative evokes a sense of actively changing direction in the conversation or thought process.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "back to the question" in a sentence?

Use "back to the question" to redirect focus to the original subject after a digression or tangential discussion. For example, "Now that we've addressed the side issue, "back to the question" of budget allocation."

Are there formal alternatives to "back to the question"?

Yes, in more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "returning to the question" or "to reiterate the question". These options maintain a professional tone while serving the same purpose.

When is it inappropriate to use "back to the question"?

Avoid using "back to the question" if you haven't clearly posed the question earlier in the conversation or writing. Without a clear reference point, the phrase loses its meaning and can confuse your audience. Always ensure the context is well-established.

What's the difference between "back to the question" and "in regard to the question"?

"Back to the question" implies a direct return to a previously discussed point, while "in regard to the question" suggests a broader consideration or exploration of the topic. The former is more about refocusing; the latter, about addressing the topic more generally.