consider the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "consider the question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when prompting someone to think about a specific question or topic in a thoughtful manner. Example: "Before we move on, let's take a moment to consider the question of how technology impacts our daily lives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But Justice Stevens did not consider the question difficult.

The New York Times

Consider the question of tax rates on the wealthy.

The New York Times

Consider the question of Google's greatest business secret.

The New York Times - Tech

As tour participants consider the question, they hear the booming summons: "Walk this way!

The New York Times - Travel

Consider the question of which themes and books characterize a literary era.

The New York Times

Consider the question of whether Afghan traditions are still intact after decades of war.

The New York Times - Books

You might expect Scott McNealy, the boss of Sun Microsystems, to consider the question insulting.

The Economist

What made the author of the article consider the question of who is the best wizard?

The New York Times

It may be useful to consider the question, Who stands to gain?

The New York Times

Ten-year-old Toby Hulse looked up from his football to consider the question.

The Guardian - Travel

Officials at the Federal Reserve have already begun to consider the question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "consider the question" with a concise explanation of why the question is important, setting the stage for a deeper analysis or discussion.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "consider the question". Vary your sentence structure and use alternative phrases like "think about the query" or "reflect on the topic" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "consider the question" functions as an imperative phrase intended to prompt thought or analysis. It is used to direct the audience to focus on a specific inquiry or topic. As Ludwig highlights, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "consider the question" is a versatile phrase used to invite reflection and critical analysis. As Ludwig affirms, this phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse writing styles, from journalistic to scientific. While very common, it’s essential to use it judiciously, varying sentence structure to maintain reader engagement. Alternatives like "reflect on the topic" and "ponder the subject" offer similar nuances. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for many contexts, although simpler options might be preferable in very casual settings. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, writers can effectively employ "consider the question" to stimulate thoughtful engagement with their chosen topics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

think about the query

Replaces "consider" with "think about", simplifying the phrasing.

reflect on the query

Replaces "consider" with "reflect", emphasizing deeper thought.

ponder the subject

Substitutes "consider" with "ponder", suggesting a more thoughtful deliberation, and "question" with "subject", broadening the scope.

contemplate the issue

Replaces "consider" with "contemplate", implying a longer and more careful thought process, and "question" with "issue", framing it as a matter of debate.

analyze the problem

Replaces "consider" with "analyze", focusing on a systematic examination, and "question" with "problem", framing it as something needing a solution.

examine the matter

Substitutes "consider" with "examine", suggesting a detailed inspection, and "question" with "matter", making it more general.

weigh the problem

Suggests carefully evaluating or assessing an issue.

deliberate on the topic

Replaces "consider" with "deliberate", highlighting a careful and thorough discussion, and "question" with "topic", making it a broader theme.

give thought to the inquiry

Replaces "consider" with "give thought to", making it more descriptive, and "question" with "inquiry", making it more formal.

assess the situation

Suggests evaluating the circumstances around the query.

FAQs

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

Use "consider the question" to introduce a point of reflection or analysis. For example, "Consider the question: What are the long-term effects of remote work?" This prompts the audience to think critically about the topic at hand.

What phrases are similar to "consider the question"?

Alternatives include "think about the query", "reflect on the topic", or "ponder the subject". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it too formal to use "consider the question" in everyday conversation?

While "consider the question" isn't overly formal, it may sound slightly elevated in casual conversation. In such settings, simpler alternatives like "think about it" or "what about" may be more appropriate.

How does "consider the question" differ from "answer the question"?

"Consider the question" prompts reflection and analysis, while "answer the question" requests a direct response. The former is about exploring the topic, while the latter is about providing a specific solution or explanation.