gist of the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gist of the question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when summarizing or conveying the main point or essence of a question. Example: "To understand the gist of the question, we need to focus on what the interviewer is really asking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The wording and language vary, but the gist of the question is the same: "Aren't you too old for this?" People ask for different reasons.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

To capture the gist of the questions we address, you have to ask yourself one question.

Harvard University

Ask the reporter what the gist of the questions will be.

Los Angeles Times

The reasons for high C-section rate in Iran were the main gist of the questions discussed in the interviews (Additional file 1).

BMC Health Services Research

CROWLEY: Mr. President, let me just see if I can move you to the gist of this question, which is, are we looking at the new normal?

The Washington Post

But they get the gist of the main question of the song: Should old friends be forgotten?

The New Yorker

Same with Siri, which was tuned to listen for the kinds of phrases an employer might use with a personal assistant and could get the gist of a question without understanding every word.

Huffington Post

The gist is that the question of whether technology makes us smarter or dumber is not really even a valid question — it supposes a legitimate judgment on the nature of intelligence which no one can make with authority.

TechCrunch

Why was the first online report on Monday vague about details of the investigation, saying that Mr. Spitzer was "involved" and "linked" to the prostitution ring? A. That was the gist of various questions submitted by readers about the first report posted shortly before 2 p.m. on Monday.

The New York Times

THE GIST: The overarching question of both the show and the course centers on the metropolis: Why do cities develop as they do?

Duke University

"The gist of his questions was: when did you start manipulating Allied stock?" Mr. Einhorn wrote.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gist of the question", ensure that the context clearly indicates you are referring to the main idea or central point, not a detailed breakdown.

Common error

Avoid using "gist of the question" when you actually need a precise, detailed answer. "Gist" implies a general understanding, not specific information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gist of the question" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a verb or noun to indicate the main idea or core meaning of a question. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gist of the question" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase used to identify the central idea or main point of a question. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English. While it appears across various contexts including news, academia, and science, it is less common in highly formal or business settings. Alternatives like "essence of the question" or "core of the question" can be used for a more formal tone. It is important to use the phrase when a general understanding is sufficient, rather than when detailed information is required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

core of the question

Replaces "gist" with "core", emphasizing the central and most important aspect.

essence of the question

Uses "essence" instead of "gist", highlighting the fundamental nature of the question.

central point of the question

Highlights the main idea or focus of the question

summary of the question

Focuses on providing a condensed version of the question's main points.

nub of the question

Replaces "gist" with "nub", pointing to the central issue or point.

heart of the question

Replaces "gist" with "heart", highlighting the emotional or core concern.

outline of the question

Indicates a structured overview of the question's key components.

substance of the question

Focuses on the meaningful content and significance of the question.

spirit of the question

Uses "spirit" instead of "gist", referring to the underlying intention or meaning.

content of the question

Refers to the actual information and material included in the question.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "gist of the question" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "essence of the question", "core of the question", or "substance of the question".

What does "gist of the question" mean?

The "gist of the question" refers to the main point, central idea, or essential meaning behind a question. It's about understanding the overall message without focusing on minor details.

Is it appropriate to use "gist of the question" in academic writing?

Yes, "gist of the question" is acceptable in academic writing when you want to convey a general understanding of the question being addressed. However, ensure it aligns with the formal tone and clarity expected in academic contexts.

What's the difference between "gist of the question" and "details of the question"?

"Gist of the question" refers to the overall, main idea, while "details of the question" refers to the specific components, facts, or information contained within the question. They represent different levels of understanding and focus.