broader question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "broader question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a more general or overarching inquiry that encompasses various aspects of a topic. Example: "While we can discuss the specifics of this issue, I believe the broader question we need to address is how it impacts our community as a whole."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The broader question could wait.

The New York Times

THIS then leads to a broader question.

The New York Times

A broader question lurks as well.

The New York Times

However, there is a broader question, surely.

Independent

It also raises a broader question.

The Guardian - Sport

But it would leave the broader question for another day.

The New York Times

pay to the broader question of wealth distribution.

The New Yorker

But the broader question is this: where's the line?

The Guardian - Sport

"There is the broader question I'm concerned about," he added.

The Guardian

Beyond transplantation and mechanization looms the broader question of longevity.

The New York Times - Books

But that raises a much broader question about the quality of our political coverage.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "broader question" to transition from specific details to a more general perspective, encouraging a wider scope of analysis or discussion.

Common error

Avoid using "broader question" when a narrower, more specific inquiry is actually needed. Ensure the question genuinely expands the discussion, rather than diluting it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "broader question" functions as a discourse marker to introduce a more general or overarching inquiry. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is used to transition from specific details to a more encompassing perspective, inviting a wider analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "broader question" is a versatile tool for transitioning discussions from specific details to more general inquiries. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, notably in news, scientific, and formal writing. When writing, it's essential to use this phrase to introduce a more encompassing perspective while avoiding overuse by varying language with alternatives such as "larger question" or "overarching issue".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

larger question

Refers to a more significant or encompassing question.

wider question

Indicates a question with a broader scope or range.

overarching issue

Emphasizes the primary and all-encompassing nature of the issue.

fundamental problem

Highlights the basic and underlying nature of the problem.

central concern

Focuses on the core or most important aspect of the matter.

key consideration

Points to an essential element that needs to be taken into account.

primary focus

Indicates the main point of attention or emphasis.

main point

Highlights the principal idea or argument.

underlying theme

Emphasizes the recurring or implicit motif.

general topic

Refers to the overall subject under discussion.

FAQs

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

Use "broader question" to introduce a more general inquiry that encompasses several specific points. For example: "While we've addressed these immediate concerns, the "broader question" is how to prevent similar issues in the future."

What's a good alternative to "broader question"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "broader question" with phrases like "larger issue", "wider scope", or "overarching theme".

When is it appropriate to use "broader question"?

It's appropriate when you want to shift the focus from specific details to a more general or fundamental issue. It signals that the discussion needs to consider a wider perspective.

Is there a risk of overusing the phrase "broader question"?

Yes, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "key consideration" or "central theme" to maintain reader engagement.