informed question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "informed question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that is based on knowledge or understanding of a particular topic. Example: "During the discussion, she asked an informed question about the recent changes in policy, demonstrating her grasp of the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science & Research

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A poorly informed question can open up a can of worms you'd prefer remained sealed, so be prepared.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

This information will allow you to ask your boss informed questions about the nature of your work and the company as a whole.

WikiHow

The SHKP man appeared to have a good knowledge of Kallakis's loans and asked informed questions.

The Guardian

By making sustainability reporting the new normal, regulators, competitors, investors - indeed anyone reading a report - can raise informed questions and suggest improvements.

The Guardian

Besides, the show itself was a notorious trashfest, baggily paced and decidedly unglamorous, down to that lazy tradition of red-carpet cruelty — shockingly absent this year, even on E!, where Giuliana Rancic, of all people, was asking informed questions of guests.

The New Yorker

He may interview cineastes with thoughtful, informed questions on his IFC program, "Henry's Film Corner," but every episode begins with a segment called "Teeing Off," in which Rollins gnashes his teeth, sputters and screams his way through diatribes on targets ranging from Paul Wolfowitz to Ashlee Simpson.

The New York Times

She would ask informed questions or make penetrating comments, pressing to know what could be done to improve the chances of aspiring scientists half a century or more younger than she.

Science Magazine

When, in episode one, Snoop Dog appears as a guest, Aisha Tyler and Kym Whitely produce a far more interesting dialogue, asking him informed questions about what he thought about his portrayal in Straight Outta Compton and the white-washing of the Oscars, while in the corner Khloe stamps her foot like Honey Boo Boo.

Vice

Many patients (47%) reported that the lack of CKD knowledge limited their ability to formulate informed questions.

CKJ: Clinical Kidney Journal

They were engaged, asked informed questions, and chatted with each other about the session content and its significance.

BMC Medical Education

Second, the results of this qualitative research informed questions in an Ipsos MORI 12 survey in England in January 2011.

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "informed question" when you want to emphasize that the question is based on a solid understanding of the topic. It's particularly effective in academic, professional, or journalistic contexts where demonstrating knowledge is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "informed question" when you mean to ask about the official or approved question. "Informed" refers to the questioner's knowledge, not the question's status.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "informed question" functions as a noun phrase, where "informed" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "question". It describes the quality of the question, indicating that it is based on knowledge or understanding, as Ludwig explains.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "informed question" is a phrase used to describe a question that stems from a solid base of knowledge or understanding. While relatively rare, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and most frequently appears in scientific, news, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects that the question is based on understanding, not simply a generic 'good' question. Consider using alternative phrases like "knowledgeable question" or "well-informed question" depending on the level of formality desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knowledgeable question

Emphasizes the knowledge possessed by the person asking the question.

well-informed question

Synonymous, highlighting the depth of information behind the question.

insightful question

Focuses on the question's ability to reveal deeper understanding.

thoughtful question

Highlights the care and consideration put into formulating the question.

educated question

Implies that the question arises from formal learning or study.

astute question

Suggests the question is sharp, perceptive, and clever.

pertinent question

Indicates that the question is directly relevant to the topic at hand.

relevant question

Similar to 'pertinent', emphasizes the question's applicability.

probing question

Suggests the question is designed to explore or investigate thoroughly.

enlightening question

Focuses on the potential of the question to reveal new information.

FAQs

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

For a more formal tone, consider using "knowledgeable inquiry" or "well-informed query". These alternatives are suitable for academic or professional settings.

What does it mean to ask an "informed question"?

Asking an "informed question" means that your question is based on a good understanding of the subject matter. It demonstrates that you've done your homework and are engaging with the topic in a thoughtful way.

Is there a difference between an "informed question" and a "good question"?

While a "good question" might be interesting or thought-provoking, an "informed question" specifically implies that the questioner has some prior knowledge or understanding of the topic. A good question can be basic but a "knowledgeable question" demonstrates understanding.

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

Use "informed question" when you want to highlight the questioner's knowledge or expertise. This phrase is appropriate in contexts where demonstrating understanding is important, such as in academic discussions, professional meetings, or journalistic interviews.