constant question

USAGE SUMMARY

"constant question" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "The constant question running through my mind was why she had acted that way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Everyday, it's a constant question.

The Washington Post

"Just what does Harry Hopkins Do?" is a constant question in Washington.

The New Yorker

But if you go on Twitter, it's a constant question: Do you have a ponytail?

The New York Times - Magazine

It's about his own struggles, but also a riff on the constant question for America: should it intervene?

The Guardian - Books

"Emily used to always say: 'How much longer, how much longer, how much longer?' That was a constant question.

The Guardian

"This is the constant question among liberal, progressive Jews: what does it mean to support Israel?" he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

There's constant questions.

The New York Times - Sports

And then there are the constant questions.

The Washington Post

He peppered his older brother Frank with constant questions, too.

The New York Times - Health

His teammates have admitted to being distracted by the constant questions about "Chris".

The New York Times - Sports

Usually, YouTubers would respond to the constant questions about hoaxes in their comments.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "constant question", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the question 'constant' – is it frequently asked, continually relevant, or persistently unanswered? Providing this context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "constant question" simply as a dramatic effect. Ensure the question truly recurs or persists in a meaningful way within the given context. If the question is only asked once but has lasting implications, consider alternative phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "constant question" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, referring to a question that is repeatedly asked or considered. Ludwig AI shows various instances of this phrase being used in news, media, and academic contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "constant question" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an inquiry that is frequently asked or persistently relevant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears across various contexts, including news, media, and formal settings, indicating its versatility. While generally neutral in register, clarity can be enhanced by specifying why the question is considered 'constant'. The phrase functions as a noun phrase, serving to emphasize the recurring nature of the inquiry and its significance in the given context. Remembering not to overuse it without proper justification will help in maintaining its impact. Alternatives such as "recurring query" or "persistent inquiry" may be used depending on context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recurring query

Focuses on the repeated nature of the question.

persistent inquiry

Emphasizes the continuous and determined nature of the questioning.

frequent concern

Highlights the worry or anxiety associated with the question.

perpetual problem

Shifts the focus to the issue the question addresses, portraying it as ongoing.

ongoing debate

Replaces question with debate, focusing on back and forth discussions.

eternal mystery

Highlights the unsolvable nature of the question.

lingering doubt

Emphasizes the uncertainty and hesitation surrounding the question.

unresolved issue

Focuses on lack of resolution, issue is left to linger.

pressing matter

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the issue, matter is to be adressed.

central theme

Highlights a key idea that recurs in writing, music or discussion.

FAQs

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

You can use "constant question" to describe an inquiry that is frequently asked, always relevant, or persistently unanswered. For example, "The "constant question" among investors is whether the market will continue to rise."

What are some alternatives to "constant question"?

Some alternatives include "recurring query", "persistent inquiry", or "frequent concern", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a constant questions" instead of "constant question"?

No, "a constant questions" is grammatically incorrect. Since "questions" is plural, it can't be used with the indefinite article "a". You can say "a recurring question" or "constant questions", adjusting the article or noun accordingly.

What's the difference between "constant question" and "incessant questioning"?

While both relate to repeated inquiries, "constant question" refers to the question itself, whereas "incessant questioning" refers to the act of asking questions repeatedly and often annoyingly. The former focuses on the inquiry, the latter on the process.