in question

USAGE SUMMARY

"in question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a phrase or clause that contains an item or concept you are discussing or inquiring about. For example: The details of the accident in question are still being investigated.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The snap in question?

The Guardian - Sport

The Stormtrooper in question?

Independent

The mother in question?

Independent

The painting in question?

The New York Times - Books

The scene in question?

Independent

The conciliator in question?

The Economist

The stick in question?

Independent

The society in question?

The New York Times

The companion in question?

Independent

The animal in question?

The New York Times - Science

The skill in question?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in question" to clearly identify the specific item or topic you are currently focusing on within a broader context. This helps avoid ambiguity and keeps your writing precise.

Common error

Avoid using "in question" when you simply mean something is uncertain or doubtful. "In question" should refer to a specific item already introduced. For general uncertainty, use phrases like "debatable" or "uncertain" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in question" functions as a postpositive adjective, modifying a noun to specify that the noun is the one currently being discussed or considered. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct. Examples from Ludwig show its use in various contexts to pinpoint a specific item.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective phrase that serves to specify a particular item or topic under discussion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for use in various contexts, although it is particularly common in news, academic, and formal writing. To ensure effective use, it's best to use it to highlight a thing already specified in context. Consider alternatives like "under consideration" or "at issue" to add nuance. The numerous examples available in Ludwig demonstrate its versatility and importance in maintaining clarity and precision in written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the matter in question

Adds a slightly more formal tone while referring to the specific item or issue being discussed.

under consideration

Focuses on the act of thinking about something, making it suitable when the topic is being actively evaluated.

under discussion

Emphasizes the act of talking about something, useful when the topic is being actively debated or examined.

at issue

Highlights the point of contention or debate, suitable when the topic is disputed or problematic.

in dispute

Directly indicates that something is being contested, ideal when the topic is subject to disagreement.

under review

Focuses on the process of reassessing something, suitable when the topic is being re-evaluated.

being examined

Highlights the process of close inspection and investigation, suitable when the topic is undergoing scrutiny.

the subject at hand

Emphasizes the immediate topic being addressed, useful for focusing attention on the current matter.

the relevant

Highlights the pertinence of something to the current discussion or situation.

the aforementioned

Refers back to something previously mentioned, suitable when avoiding repetition.

FAQs

How can I use "in question" in a sentence?

You can use "in question" to specify a particular item being discussed, as in "The document "in question" contains sensitive information."

What is the difference between "in question" and "at issue"?

"In question" refers to something specifically being discussed, while "at issue" refers to something being debated or disputed. The phrase "at issue" often implies a problem or point of contention.

Are there formal alternatives to "in question"?

Yes, formal alternatives include "the aforementioned", "the "relevant"", or "the "matter in question"". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing.

Can "in question" be used to introduce something for the first time?

No, "in question" should refer to something that has already been mentioned or is understood from the context. It's not appropriate for introducing something completely new to the discussion.