cut-off questions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cut-off questions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to questions that are designed to limit or restrict responses, often in a survey or interview context. Example: "The survey included several cut-off questions to ensure that only relevant participants could proceed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A moment later, he cut off questions and strode away.

The New York Times - Sports

Hardaway cut off questions today about his injury, incurred late in the regular season.

The New York Times - Sports

At one point, Sheriff Dupnik cut off questions to Mr. Mueller, saying that other officials were still available to speak.

The New York Times

Asked if he still had confidence in those officials, the governor nodded curtly and cut off questions.

The New York Times

Representative Diana DeGette of Colorado cut off questions after being asked whether she would draw the line at legal abortion later in pregnancy.

The New York Times

In the one-hour meeting, during which people frequently booed, Mr. Trani cut off questions after 20 minutes and said, "I run this meeting".

The New York Times

Suzanne Morris, a press aide, cut off questions on the topic a minute later and told reporters not to badger the governor.

The New York Times

The moderator cut off questions about last weekend's controversy -- Venus Williams withdrew shortly before her semifinal against her sister, citing a knee injury -- although Venus Williams made a passing reference to it.

The New York Times - Sports

According to one report, Lewis cut off questions from the media after announcing his candidacy, saying he had to get to track practice at the high school in nearby Willingboro, where he grew up.

The Guardian - Sport

At one point during the news conference, she cut off questions being posed to Mosby by reporters.

Los Angeles Times

Thank you to whoever respectfully asked the cut off question!

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cut-off questions" when you want to emphasize the abrupt or deliberate ending of a line of questioning, especially in scenarios involving interviews, press conferences, or formal discussions.

Common error

Avoid using "cut-off questions" when simply referring to questions that are difficult or challenging. The phrase specifically denotes questions used to stop or limit further inquiry on a topic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cut-off questions" functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe questions employed to terminate or significantly limit further discussion or inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms that it can be used to refer to questions that are designed to limit or restrict responses.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cut-off questions" refers to questions deliberately used to halt or limit further discussion on a topic. While grammatically correct, its frequency is rare. Ludwig AI indicates that it is appropriate for use in discussions about controlling conversations or managing information flow, particularly in formal or professional contexts. Alternatives include "limiting questions" and "restrictive inquiries". When using the phrase, it's crucial to consider the specific context to ensure the message is accurately conveyed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

questions designed to limit responses

Focuses on the effect of the questions on the answers provided.

questions intended to halt discussion

More explicitly describes the purpose of the questions.

limiting questions

Focuses on the restrictive nature of the questions, omitting the abruptness implied by "cut-off".

restrictive inquiries

Replaces "questions" with the more formal "inquiries" and uses "restrictive" to highlight the limitation.

curtailed questioning

Highlights that the questioning process is reduced or limited.

abortive questioning

Emphasizes the interruption or termination of the questioning process.

questions that shut down debate

Highlights the effect of the questions on the discussion.

terminated questions

Focuses on the complete end of the questions being asked.

screening questions

Implies a process where questions are used to filter or select participants or information.

filter questions

Similar to screening questions, emphasizes the act of sifting through information.

FAQs

How can I use "cut-off questions" in a sentence?

You might say, "The politician used "cut-off questions" to avoid discussing the controversial topic further".

What are some alternatives to using "cut-off questions"?

Alternatives include "limiting questions", "restrictive inquiries", or "screening questions", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use the term "cut-off questions"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation where questions are intentionally used to halt or restrict further discussion on a particular topic.

What is the difference between "cut-off questions" and "leading questions"?

"Cut-off questions" aim to end a line of inquiry, while "leading questions" are designed to guide the respondent toward a specific answer.