intelligent question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intelligent question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a question that demonstrates deep thought, insight, or understanding of a topic. Example: "During the discussion, she asked an intelligent question that prompted everyone to think more critically about the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

As a start, you need someone who can hold a camera while asking an intelligent question.

The Guardian

"I told George Steinbrenner that we must answer every intelligent question the public will ask before we go public, otherwise it'll be killed," he recalled.

The New York Times

One of the GPs who did turn up asked the minister, Paul Burstow, a very intelligent question: "We GPs are up to our eyes in learning how to commission.

The Guardian

What is amazing is not the laws, but that we lowly humans have the capability of looking at the world and universe about us, and by exercise of our intellect we are able to understand much of it, if only until the next more intelligent question is posed.

The New York Times

To quote a Long Island friend who refused to get his hair cut by an Illinois barber for his first three years at Northwestern University, "New Yorkers have no idea at all of what Iowa is like, so they have nothing upon which to base an intelligent question".

The New York Times

After eight years carefully cultivating an intelligent question and answer community, Quora raised an $85 million Series D round co-led by Collaborative Fund and Y Combinator's Continuity Fund.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Vreeland and Shepard asked sublimely intelligent questions.

The New York Times - Magazine

I appreciate all the good and intelligent questions.

The New Yorker

"But it allows you to ask intelligent questions.

The New York Times

At the top, your brain is deprived of oxygen and all intelligent questions go missing.

Independent

"People asked very intelligent questions, and there was this incredible setup of lemonade and homemade cookies".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "intelligent question", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone. While generally positive, in some situations, it might sound condescending. Alternatives like "thoughtful question" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "intelligent question" in overly casual settings, as it can sound stilted or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "good question" or "smart question" for a more natural feel.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intelligent question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "intelligent" modifies the noun "question". This phrase typically serves to describe a question that demonstrates a high level of understanding, insight, or cognitive ability. Ludwig examples demonstrate this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intelligent question" is a grammatically sound and generally well-received way to describe a query that exhibits thoughtfulness and understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not overly frequent, it finds its place primarily in news, media, scientific, and wiki contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of the register, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate in casual settings. Consider variations like "thoughtful question" or "insightful query" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to convey. Overall, "intelligent question" serves to acknowledge the quality of an inquiry, promoting deeper discussion and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insightful query

Replaces "intelligent" with "insightful", emphasizing the depth of understanding behind the question.

thoughtful question

Substitutes "intelligent" with "thoughtful", highlighting the careful consideration put into formulating the question.

well-reasoned question

Emphasizes the logical structure and clarity of thought behind the question.

smart question

A more informal synonym for "intelligent", suitable for less formal contexts.

perceptive question

Highlights the ability of the question to reveal or understand something not immediately obvious.

probing question

Suggests that the question is designed to explore a topic deeply and thoroughly.

astute question

Emphasizes the sharpness and cleverness of the question.

incisive question

Highlights the precision and directness of the question in getting to the heart of the matter.

erudite question

Suggests that the question is posed from a place of great learning and knowledge.

sharp question

A more direct and concise synonym emphasizing the clarity of the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "intelligent question" to describe a query that demonstrates insight or understanding. For example, "She posed an "intelligent question" about the economic impact of the policy."

What's a more informal alternative to "intelligent question"?

If you're in a casual setting, you might prefer alternatives like "good question" or "smart question". These options are less formal and more conversational.

Is there a difference between "intelligent question" and "thoughtful question"?

"Intelligent question" emphasizes the mental acuity behind the question, while "thoughtful question" highlights the care and consideration put into formulating it. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

What are some other words I can use instead of "intelligent" in this context?

Consider using synonyms like "insightful", "perceptive", or "astute" to describe the question, depending on the specific quality you want to emphasize.