grave question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grave question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a serious or important issue that requires careful consideration or discussion. Example: "The committee faced a grave question regarding the future of the project and its impact on the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"Grave question marks hang over this killing..

The Guardian

That poses a grave question, he said: Can work based on those older lines continue?

The Guardian

'If the case stood here as it stood before the court of first instance it would present a grave question of constitutional law and we should be astute to avoid hindrances in the way of taking it up.

Cornell University

But the new chairman, Ernest Istook, Republican of Oklahoma, said at the hearing where Mr. Jackson spoke, "There is a grave question whether Amtrak can continue to operate without dragging down the transportation system of the rest of the country".

The New York Times

More to the point, if Fifa were to remove the competition from either country, it would have to run a competition to find a new host, and there would be grave question marks over whether it would be in a fit state to do so.

Independent

But to a degree that neither side may yet fully realize, the Moscow-Washington sniping raises the grave question of whether the two partners really do have enough in common, beyond a hatred and fear of terror, to sustain their romance.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But now there are grave questions about whether even the technology makes sense.

The New York Times

If anything, in fact, its curious burial on page eight raises grave questions about the paper's news judgement.

Independent

But the litigation has thrown a spotlight on the summons system, raising grave questions about its fairness and legality.

The New York Times

"Bernie Sanders's behavior towards Hillary Clinton Tuesday night has raised some grave questions about him in voters' minds," Foyler said.

The New Yorker

Oppenheimers involvement in the Chevalier incident, and his subsequent conduct with respect to it, raise grave questions of security import.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grave question" to introduce issues that have significant implications and require careful consideration. It adds weight to the topic.

Common error

Avoid using "grave question" for minor issues. It should be reserved for situations that genuinely warrant serious consideration, not everyday concerns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave question" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a significant issue or inquiry, often demanding careful thought and consideration. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grave question" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce significant issues requiring careful thought. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable in written English. It appears most frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts, signaling a serious tone. When using this phrase, reserve it for situations with substantial implications to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives such as "serious matter" or "critical issue" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance desired. Remember to maintain consistency and clarity when using "grave question" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious matter

This alternative simplifies the phrase, focusing on the seriousness of the issue.

critical issue

This alternative emphasizes the importance and urgency of the problem.

significant concern

This alternative highlights the worry or anxiety associated with the subject.

pressing problem

This alternative suggests the issue requires immediate attention.

vital question

This alternative emphasizes the life-or-death nature or extreme importance of the inquiry.

deep concern

This alternative conveys a strong feeling of worry and unease.

momentous question

This alternative stresses the historical or lasting importance of the issue.

burning question

This alternative suggests a question that is intensely debated or on everyone's mind.

issue of great importance

This alternative is a more formal way of highlighting the significance of the issue.

matter of great import

This alternative uses more formal and somewhat archaic language to describe a critical issue.

FAQs

How to use "grave question" in a sentence?

You can use "grave question" to introduce a serious or important issue that needs careful consideration. For example, "The ethical implications of this technology raise a "grave question"."

What can I say instead of "grave question"?

You can use alternatives like "serious matter", "critical issue", or "significant concern" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "grave question"?

Use "grave question" when addressing issues with serious implications, such as ethical dilemmas, policy decisions, or situations involving significant risk. It is suitable when the situation necessitates careful and thoughtful analysis.

What's the difference between "grave question" and "serious question"?

"Grave question" implies a higher level of importance and potential impact than "serious question". While both denote importance, "grave question" suggests deeper implications or more significant consequences.