important question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "important question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to highlight a question that holds significant relevance or urgency in a discussion or context. Example: "Before we proceed, I have an important question regarding the project's timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The important question is implementability.

The Guardian - Business

Cost is another important question.

The New York Times - Health

That's her most important question.

The New Yorker

It is an important question.

The Economist

The most important question?

The Guardian

The important question Applewhite?

The New York Times - Sports

There remains one important question.

The Guardian

The most important question first.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is an important question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Now for that all-important question.

Forbes

Now, for the ever-important question: Why?

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "important question" to signal a shift in focus or to introduce a pivotal point in your argument.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "important question". This can make your writing sound repetitive and diminish the impact of each question. Instead, try rephrasing some instances using alternatives like "key question" or "crucial question".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "important question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving to introduce a key inquiry or a pivotal point in a discussion or argument. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use across various contexts to emphasize the significance of the question being posed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

19%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "important question" is a versatile phrase used to emphasize the significance of an inquiry across diverse contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in writing and speech, particularly in news media and scientific publications. While alternatives like "crucial question" or "significant question" exist, "important question" remains a straightforward and effective way to signal the gravity of the issue at hand. Be mindful of overuse to maintain its impact, and ensure that the context justifies its application. Its prevalence and adaptability make it a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Significant question

Replaces "important" with a synonym that emphasizes the magnitude of the question.

Crucial question

Highlights the critical and decisive nature of the question.

Key question

Emphasizes that the question is central to understanding the situation.

Essential question

Indicates that the question is indispensable and vital.

Vital question

Similar to "essential", stressing the life-or-death importance of the question in some contexts.

Central question

Highlights that the question lies at the core of the issue.

Primary question

Suggests that the question is of utmost importance and comes before others.

Principal question

Similar to "primary", emphasizing the foremost nature of the question.

Major question

Indicates the question is significant in scope or impact.

Critical inquiry

A more formal alternative, replacing "question" with "inquiry" to emphasize a careful examination.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "important question" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can use phrases such as "significant question", "critical inquiry", or "essential inquiry". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state a question is "important"?

No, it's not always necessary. The importance of a question can often be implied through the context and the way you frame it. Overusing "important" can weaken its impact. Consider if the context already conveys the significance.

What's the difference between an "important question" and a "relevant question"?

While both terms denote significance, an "important question" implies the question has a considerable impact or consequence. A "relevant question" simply means the question is pertinent and connected to the topic at hand. An important question is always relevant, but a relevant question isn't necessarily important.

Can "important question" be used in casual conversation?

Yes, it can be used in casual conversation, but be mindful of the context. In extremely informal settings, using a more casual phrase might be preferable. However, "important question" is generally acceptable as long as the question genuinely holds significance.