final question

USAGE SUMMARY

"final question" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are asking someone a last question before the end of a conversation, for example: "Do you have any final questions before we finish up?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Final question.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A final question.

The New York Times

She took a final question.

The New Yorker

Now one final question.

Yale University

MFB: Final question.

Princeton University

DH: My final question.

The Guardian

IK: Any final question?

The Guardian - Books

MODERATOR: Final question.

The New Yorker

PF A final question.

The Guardian - Film

Final question: Will the bounce persist?

The New York Times

I asked Correa a final question.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "final question" consider rephrasing it into a complete sentence for extra clarity, example: "Do you have a final question for me?".

Common error

Avoid using "final question" excessively, especially in informal settings where a more casual closing might be appropriate. Overuse can sound overly formal or abrupt.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "final question" primarily functions as a discourse marker, signaling the conclusion of a question-and-answer session, interview, or discussion. It prefaces the last question, indicating that there will be no further inquiries. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts to denote closure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "final question" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate the last question in a series, particularly in formal contexts such as interviews, Q&A sessions, and discussions. Ludwig's analysis of numerous examples confirms its widespread use across various authoritative sources, including The Guardian, The New York Times, and academic institutions. The phrase primarily functions as a discourse marker, signaling closure and managing expectations. While versatile, it is best used in neutral to formal settings. Consider alternatives like "last question" or "concluding question" to prevent overuse or adjust the tone. Overall, "final question" serves as a clear and professional way to conclude an inquiry.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

last question

Replaces "final" with "last", indicating the concluding nature of the question.

concluding question

Uses "concluding" to emphasize the end of the questioning period.

one last question

Adds emphasis on the singularity and finality of the question.

any final questions

Offers the opportunity for multiple concluding questions.

end question

A more concise way to refer to the ultimate question.

closing question

Refers to the act of bringing questioning to a close.

ultimate question

Implies the most important or decisive question.

penultimate question

Indicates the second to last question, leading up to the end.

wrap-up question

A question to summarize or finalize a discussion.

terminal question

Emphasizes the absolute end of the questioning.

FAQs

How can I use "final question" in a formal setting?

In formal contexts, use "final question" to signal the end of a discussion or interview clearly. For instance, "Before we conclude, do you have a final question?" It's a professional way to manage time and signal closure.

Are there alternatives to using "final question"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "last question", "concluding question", or "any final questions".

Is it appropriate to use "final question" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "final question" might sound too formal in casual conversations. Consider using a more relaxed phrase like "one more thing?" or "anything else?" instead.

What's the difference between "final question" and "ultimate question"?

"Final question" refers to the last question in a series, signaling the end. "Ultimate question" implies the most important or fundamental question.