firm question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "firm question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a question that is direct, assertive, or confident in nature. Example: "During the meeting, she posed a firm question about the project's timeline that left no room for ambiguity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

This paper emphasizes the important relationship between the paradox of disclosure and the boundaries of the firm question.

Harvard University

Others, like Ron Paul, president of Technomic Inc., a Chicago consulting firm, question whether it makes sense for a specialty food store to open so many outlets.

The New York Times

Make a firm point, ask a firm question; try to make your audience really think.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Similarly, I am sure our firm questions on human rights must lose their purpose in translation.

Independent

Tom Adshead, a partner at Macro-Advisory, a Moscow-based financial consulting firm, questioned whether more legislation would make a difference.

The Guardian

We ask firm questions but we don't edit what they say; they talk to our listeners directly.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Shares of Tyco International fell 2.8percentt yesterday after a research firm questioned whether Tyco is the subject of a government investigation.

The New York Times

Officials of Tweedy, Browne & Company, a New York investment firm, questioned $73 million it said that the executives had collected since 1999.

The New York Times

But some people close to the firm questioned whether Mr. O'Neal's buttoned-down demeanor would suit him well as he tried to rally the firm's brokers.

The New York Times

But the advisory firm questioned the rationale for joining with T-Mobile, which has struggled against bigger rivals like AT&T, which failed to buy the company for $39 billion two years ago, and Sprint Nextel.

The New York Times

In an Oct. 6 report, Glass, Lewis & Company, an investor advisory firm, questioned the company's $680 million deal in April for Shine Limited, a television production company owned by Mr. Murdoch's daughter Elisabeth.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking clarity or commitment, use a "firm question" to ensure a clear and unambiguous response. This is especially useful in professional settings.

Common error

While a "firm question" is direct, ensure it doesn't come across as aggressive or accusatory. Maintain a respectful tone to encourage open communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm question" functions as a noun phrase, where "firm" modifies the noun "question". Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It describes a question that is direct, assertive, or confident.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm question" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a direct and assertive inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides examples across various contexts. While not exceedingly common, it effectively conveys a need for clarity and commitment. Consider using alternatives like "direct inquiry" or "pointed question" to fine-tune the nuance. When employing "firm question", ensure it's direct without being aggressive to promote constructive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

direct inquiry

Emphasizes the straightforwardness and lack of ambiguity in the question.

pointed question

Highlights the focused and often critical nature of the question.

searching question

Implies a question intended to uncover deeper truths or hidden information.

probing question

Suggests a detailed and thorough inquiry.

bold question

Conveys a sense of courage or audacity in asking the question.

tough question

Highlights the challenging or difficult nature of the question to answer.

incisive question

Emphasizes the sharpness and clarity of the question.

challenging question

Stresses the questioning of assumptions or established ideas.

pertinent question

Focuses on the relevance and importance of the question to the topic.

decisive question

Highlights the importance of the question in determining a course of action or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "firm question" in a sentence?

You can use "firm question" to describe a direct and assertive inquiry, such as: "She posed a "firm question" during the negotiation to clarify their position."

What are some alternatives to using "firm question"?

Alternatives include "direct inquiry", "pointed question", or "probing question", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to ask a "firm question"?

A "firm question" is appropriate when you need a clear and unambiguous answer, especially in situations where there may be potential for misinterpretation or evasion.

How does a "firm question" differ from a regular question?

A "firm question" is more assertive and direct than a regular question. It signals a need for a definite answer and leaves little room for ambiguity, unlike a simple inquiry.