definite question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "definite question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a question that has a clear and specific answer or meaning. Example: "In the meeting, she posed a definite question about the project's timeline that required immediate clarification."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"I don't have a definite question for you.

The New Yorker

There were definite question marks about whether it was going to work.

The Guardian

"There is a definite question now of where Ferrari's future lies," says Wright.

Forbes

There's no question in my mind (although it may be a definite question in other minds) that the play is grand.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Their method was that of the sworn inquest, by which answers were given to a long list of definite questions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The point is that we are now in a position to write down a list of definite questions with the following features: First, the questions on this list will have answers independence is not an issue.

SEP

As the preceding sections should have made clear, there is ample evidence that biological research does not fit a Popperian image of science according to which "The theoretician puts certain definite questions to the experimenter, and the latter, by his experiments, tries to elicit a decisive answer to these questions, and to no others.

SEP

While the paper does not resolve the exact mechanism, but it leaves ground for exploring some definite questions regarding the static magnetic field guided modulations of cellular poalrization and DNA damage, one being linked to the energetics of the cells and the other linked to cell death.

Cancer Nanotechnology

It's difficult to find definite answers to questions about the species that predated modern humans, mainly because of a lack of skeletal evidence.

The Guardian

The evidence is against this, inasmuch as for Hippias, Prodicus, Gorgias, and Protagoras there are records of a definite interest in questions of this kind.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Every woman should be able to exercise her right to take a conscious and informed decision, after having access to qualified sources of information able to provide definite answers to questions related to menopause, therapies, risks, uncertainties still present in research, and possible non-pharmacological treatments.

BMC Women's Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "definite question" when you want to emphasize the clarity and specificity of the question being asked. It signals that the question is not vague or open-ended.

Common error

Avoid using "definite" when you mean "definitive". "Definite" refers to something clear and certain, while "definitive" indicates a final, conclusive answer or solution. For example, use "definitive answer" to refer to a conclusive answer, and "definite question" to indicate a clear and specific question.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "definite question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "definite" modifies the noun "question". It describes a question that is clear, specific, and well-defined. Ludwig indicates this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "definite question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a clear, specific, and well-defined inquiry. Ludwig's AI analysis confirms its validity, although its usage is relatively rare. The phrase appears most frequently in scientific, news, and encyclopedia contexts. When using "definite question", ensure that you are emphasizing the clarity and precision of the question. Be careful not to confuse "definite" with "definitive", which has a different meaning. Consider alternative phrases like "clear question" or "specific question" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear question

This alternative focuses on the understandability and lack of ambiguity in the question.

specific question

This emphasizes the targeted and precise nature of the inquiry.

precise question

This alternative highlights the exactness and accuracy of the question.

explicit question

This suggests the question is stated directly and without any implication.

unambiguous question

This highlights the clarity and lack of potential for misinterpretation of the question.

well-defined question

This alternative emphasizes that the question has clear boundaries and parameters.

focused question

This suggests that the question is centered on a particular point or issue.

pointed question

This emphasizes the direct and relevant nature of the question.

targeted question

This indicates that the question is aimed at a specific objective or area.

direct question

This highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the question.

FAQs

What does "definite question" mean?

A "definite question" refers to a question that is clear, specific, and well-defined, leaving little room for ambiguity or misinterpretation. It implies that the questioner has a clear idea of what they are asking.

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

You can use "definite question" when you want to emphasize the clarity and specificity of a question. For example: "The lawyer posed a "specific question" that the witness couldn't avoid."

What are some alternatives to "definite question"?

Alternatives to "definite question" include "clear question", "specific question", or "precise question". The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the term "definite question"?

It's appropriate to use "definite question" when the clarity and focus of the inquiry are important. This can be useful in situations like legal proceedings, scientific research, or any context where precision is key.