bigger questions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bigger questions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing more significant or overarching issues that arise from a particular topic or situation. Example: "While we can debate the specifics of the policy, we must also consider the bigger questions about its long-term impact on society."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But bigger questions loom.

The Economist

But Tesla faces bigger questions.

The New York Times

There are far bigger questions at stake.

The New York Times

But the Faceback offering raises bigger questions.

The New York Times

There were bigger questions, he said.

The New York Times

Cameron's behaviour raised far, far bigger questions.

The Guardian

There are bigger questions to ask.

The Guardian - Books

There are bigger questions here, too.

The New Yorker

However, on closer inspection, this case raises even bigger questions.

The Economist

But cutting raises bigger questions for drug policy.

The Economist

There are bigger questions here, questions of justice and character.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase "bigger questions", ensure that the subsequent discussion genuinely addresses significant and relevant issues. Avoid using it merely as a rhetorical device without substantive follow-through.

Common error

Avoid using "bigger questions" as a mere rhetorical flourish. Ensure your writing genuinely explores the broader implications and overarching themes hinted at by the phrase; otherwise, it can come across as insincere or lacking depth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bigger questions" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce significant issues or overarching themes that extend beyond the immediate subject matter. As seen in Ludwig, it often signals a shift from specific details to broader implications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "bigger questions" is a versatile noun phrase employed to introduce significant issues and overarching themes. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. Its primary function is to broaden the scope of discussion, prompting deeper reflection on wider implications. While the phrase is neutral in tone, it is important to use it substantively, ensuring the subsequent discussion genuinely addresses the hinted-at implications. Alternatives such as "fundamental questions" or "broader issues" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. Ludwig AI confirms the acceptability and widespread use of "bigger questions" in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more important questions

Emphasizes the relative importance of the questions being considered.

fundamental questions

Highlights the foundational nature of the questions.

key questions

Focuses on the essential or crucial aspects of the inquiry.

broader issues

Shifts the focus from specific questions to more general concerns or problems.

underlying issues

Draws attention to the root causes or fundamental problems.

larger implications

Highlights the potential consequences and broader effects of a situation.

overarching concerns

Focuses on the primary or dominant worries and anxieties.

principal considerations

Highlights the primary aspects to be taken into account.

central themes

Emphasizes the main subjects or recurring ideas.

significant inquiries

Highlights the important nature of the questions.

FAQs

How can I use "bigger questions" in a sentence?

You can use "bigger questions" to introduce broader implications or overarching themes. For instance, "While we can debate the specifics of the policy, we must also consider the "bigger questions" about its long-term impact on society."

What are some alternatives to "bigger questions"?

You can use alternatives like "fundamental questions", "key questions", or "broader issues" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "bigger questions" in formal writing?

Yes, "bigger questions" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when transitioning from specific details to broader implications. It's commonly used in news, academic writing, and business contexts.

What's the difference between "bigger questions" and "important questions"?

While both phrases highlight the significance of inquiries, "bigger questions" often implies a broader scope or more far-reaching implications, whereas "important questions" simply emphasizes the relevance or value of the inquiry.