define the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "define the question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to clarify or specify what the question is in a discussion or analysis. Example: "Before we proceed, let's take a moment to define the question we are trying to answer in this research."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

The attorney general, George Brandis, is drafting legislation to define the question to be put to a plebiscite after the federal election, the exemptions that would apply to churches and other organisations, and whether voting would be compulsory.

The Guardian

And what tax bases should be attached to what functions?" He added: "Of course, any player would want to define the question in terms most advantageous to that person".

The New York Times

In fact, the precise legal issue in the case is surprisingly difficult to identify, and often the trick for Supreme Court litigators is how to define the question in the most advantageous terms.

The New Yorker

Sam also emphasized the nature of science and the scientific method in several cases, as can be seen in the following teacher speech act taken from the whole-class discussion: "Based on the scientific method, the first thing I want to do is to ask myself the question, define the question".

International Journal of STEM Education

Taylor's next task was to define the question at stake.

Huffington Post

Okay, let me define the question on the reader's mind.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

By definition, that is not something they can simply do themselves, if they select the reviewers, define the questions and the scope to be considered.

Science Magazine

It is the responsibility of reporters -- not congressmen, senators, neoconservatives or foreign governments -- to not only get answers to their questions, but also to define the questions properly.

Huffington Post

Genomics and proteomics may deliver answers for which it is not so easy to define the questions.

BMC Biology

The lack of contradictory reports may well be because of publication bias, but we suggest that the associations of ASB and clinical outcomes should be further tested in prospective trials to better define the questions raised in this meta-analysis.

Diabetes Care

Once logged in, the project owner is presented with a 'drag and drop' form builder, which provides a simple and intuitive way to define the questions presented to a user and consists of three sections.

F1000Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In debates, proactively "define the question" to prevent opponents from shifting the grounds of the discussion to their advantage.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone understands the underlying "question" you're addressing. Clearly articulate and "define the question" to avoid misinterpretations and irrelevant discussions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "define the question" functions primarily as a directive or an instruction. It highlights the necessity of establishing a clear and precise formulation of the issue or problem at hand before attempting to address it. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically correct and appears in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "define the question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression. According to Ludwig AI, it is essential for clearly establishing the subject of inquiry across different contexts, most commonly in scientific and news media. While the phrase is fairly common, alternatives such as "clarify the question" or "specify the question" can add nuance. To avoid misunderstandings, always ensure the underlying "question" is articulated, ensuring any discussion or research remains focused and pertinent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish the question

Replaces 'define' with 'establish', implying a more formal setting of the question.

clarify the question

Replaces 'define' with 'clarify', focusing on making the question clearer.

specify the question

Replaces 'define' with 'specify', emphasizing the need for precision.

determine the question

Replaces 'define' with 'determine', suggesting a process of figuring out what the question actually is.

identify the question

Replaces 'define' with 'identify', implying a recognition of a pre-existing question.

delineate the question

Replaces 'define' with 'delineate', suggesting a careful and detailed description of the question's boundaries.

frame the question

Replaces 'define' with 'frame', implying the question is being put into a specific context.

formulate the question

Replaces 'define' with 'formulate', suggesting the question is being carefully constructed.

set out the question

Replaces 'define' with 'set out', suggesting the question is being presented clearly and systematically.

articulate the question

Replaces 'define' with 'articulate', emphasizing clear and effective expression of the question.

FAQs

How do I use "define the question" in a sentence?

You can use "define the question" to emphasize the importance of clarity and focus. For example, "Before we start, let's "define the question" we aim to answer."

What can I say instead of "define the question"?

You can use alternatives like "clarify the question", "specify the question", or "determine the question" depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to "define the question" explicitly?

While not always mandatory, explicitly stating and "define the question" is crucial in formal settings, research, and debates to ensure everyone is aligned on the core issue.

What's the difference between "define the question" and "answer the question"?

"Define the question" focuses on clarifying what is being asked, while "answer the question" focuses on providing a solution or response to that defined inquiry.