in a question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the format or structure of a sentence that is posed as a question. Example: "The phrase 'What time is it?' is clearly in a question format."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Every sentence ended in a question mark.

The New York Times

He made the point in a question.

The Guardian

Type in a question, and she replies intelligently.

The New York Times

Why didn't they stick in a question about food?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Since we are being so unbuttoned, I slide in a question about his family.

Independent

One of the most dramatic moments in "A Question of Freedom" is at your sentencing trial.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

These were explored further in a question-and-answer session with seminar participants.

The Guardian

A copy of the association's memo, written in a question-and-answer format, was obtained by The Associated Press.

The New York Times - Sports

As Dr. Emmart said in a question-and-answer session afterward, "In this room, the visuals are overwhelming".

The New York Times - Arts

On Monday, however, she denied the accusations in a question-and-answer statement published by Efe, the Spanish news agency.

The New York Times - Sports

On VentureBeat, John Schappert, Zynga's chief operating officer, discusses the new move in a question-and-answer post.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in a question" to clearly indicate that information or an element is presented or framed within the context of a question. This helps to avoid ambiguity and ensures clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "in a question" when you intend to say "a question about". For example, "He asked a question about the economy" is more appropriate than "He asked in a question about the economy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a question" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It specifies the context or manner in which something occurs, indicating that it is presented, contained, or arises within the context of a question. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a question" is a grammatically correct and usable prepositional phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, indicating it's appropriate when you want to specify that something is presented or contained within the context of a question. Its usage is most common in news and media, science, and wiki contexts. While not extremely frequent, understanding its correct usage can enhance the precision of your writing. Remember to avoid using it when "a question about" is the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

within a question

This alternative focuses on the containment aspect, emphasizing that something is present inside the question itself.

during questioning

This phrase emphasizes the process of asking questions, often in a formal setting like an interrogation or interview.

as part of a question

This highlights the element being included as an integral component of the inquiry.

when posing a question

This alternative emphasizes the act of formulating and presenting a question.

embedded in a question

Focuses on something being nested or deeply integrated within the query.

formulated as a question

This stresses the specific wording and structure given to create the question.

during an inquiry

Replaces "question" with a broader term, emphasizing the process of seeking information.

expressed as a question

Highlights the way something is communicated in a question format.

raised in a question

Suggests that a topic or point is brought up through the act of questioning.

inside an interrogation

Similar to "during questioning" but specifies a more formal or intense question process.

FAQs

How can I use "in a question" correctly?

Use "in a question" to specify that something is presented or exists as part of a question. For instance, "The answer lies "in a question" the interviewer posed."

What's an alternative to "in a question"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "as part of a question", "during questioning", or "within a question" to convey similar meanings.

Is it ever incorrect to use "in a question"?

Yes, it would be incorrect if you meant to say "a question about." The phrase "in a question" specifies that information exists within the format of a question itself, not that the question concerns a particular topic.

How does the meaning change if I use "a question about" instead of "in a question"?

"A question about" indicates the subject or topic of the inquiry, while ""in a question"" specifies the manner or format in which information is presented. For example, "He raised a question about economics" focuses on the subject matter, while "The subtle implication lay "in a question" he asked" focuses on the way he presented it.