fair to ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fair to ask" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that a question or request is reasonable or justified. Example: "I think it's fair to ask about the timeline for the project, given the circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But it's fair to ask why.

The New York Times

So it is fair to ask what he meant.

The New York Times

It was fair to ask: did tennis still matter?

The New York Times - Sports

It's fair to ask, rhetorically: What would Elmer Kelton say?

The New York Times

But it is fair to ask: Now what?

The New York Times

It's fair to ask salespeople to project that style.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It's not fair to ask us to do anything else".

The New York Times

It's fair to ask whether they would be made again.

The Guardian

Is it fair to ask us to police one another?

The New York Times - Magazine

In short, it's fair to ask why, exactly, biodiversity matters.

The New York Times - Magazine

If it isn't fair to ask stars to refuse the money, it is fair to ask exactly what they do to earn it.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fair to ask", clearly state the question to ensure the audience understands the point you are raising.

Common error

Avoid using "fair to ask" to mask accusatory or biased questions. Ensure the inquiry is genuinely seeking information rather than expressing judgment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fair to ask" functions as an introductory device used to preface a question or inquiry, suggesting that the question is reasonable, justifiable, or appropriate within the given context. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fair to ask" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a question or inquiry in a manner that suggests reasonableness and appropriateness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and frequently employed across diverse contexts such as news, academia, and business. When using the phrase, it's important to ensure the question is genuine and not intended to be accusatory. Alternatives like "reasonable to inquire" or "justifiable to question" can offer subtle nuances. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use "fair to ask" to foster open discussion and demonstrate consideration for different perspectives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reasonable to inquire

Focuses on the logical justification of the question.

justifiable to question

Emphasizes the moral or ethical basis for asking.

legitimate to wonder

Highlights the validity and appropriateness of expressing curiosity.

appropriate to ask

Indicates that the question is suitable or fitting for the situation.

understandable to question

Conveys that questioning is expected or easily comprehended given the circumstances.

within one's rights to ask

Stresses the entitlement or permission to pose the question.

not unreasonable to ask

Uses a double negative to affirm the acceptability of the question.

hardly unfair to ask

Emphasizes the fairness of the inquiry using a negative construction.

justified to inquire

Stresses the existence of a valid reason or excuse for making an inquiry.

warranted to ask

Implies that circumstances authorize or necessitate asking the question.

FAQs

How can I use "fair to ask" in a sentence?

You can use "fair to ask" to introduce a question that is reasonable or justified in a given situation. For example, "Given the budget cuts, it's "fair to ask" whether the project can be completed on time".

What is a good alternative to "fair to ask"?

Alternatives include "reasonable to inquire", "justifiable to question", or "appropriate to ask", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it "fair to ask" or "fair that I ask"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "fair to ask" is more concise and commonly used. "Fair that I ask" is less direct and might sound slightly awkward in some contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use "fair to ask"?

It's best to avoid using "fair to ask" if the question is already loaded with bias or intended to be accusatory. In such cases, it may come across as disingenuous. Choose a more neutral phrasing.