introductory question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "introductory question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question that serves to introduce a topic or initiate a discussion. Example: "To start our discussion, I have an introductory question: What are your thoughts on the current state of the economy?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

ALISON WOOD BROOKS: So the questions that are not follow-up questions, we would classify: they're either an introductory question, so like, hi, how are you?

Harvard Business Review

I am going to start by building on that shared interest, by explaining our differences on one introductory question: What are implicit marginal tax rates, and why should we worry about them?

The New York Times

As a first milestone, in November 2012 we were invited by the German disaster network (KatNet Katastrophennetzwerk) to jointly conduct a symposium on the introductory question.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Before these were applied, an introductory question asked whether all headaches experienced by the participant were of one or >1 type: those with >1 type were asked to keep in mind only the subjectively most bothersome type.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Within this special issue it is not possible to adequately answer the introductory question, neither can the selected articles represent even the core range of disciplines, fields, concepts, methods, countries, or research contexts of resilience and vulnerability in DRM.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

The discussion of the variety of measures taken in order to establish mobility partnerships has shown the far-reaching effects and consequences of single agreements and thus the introductory question if Mobility Partnerships can be a possible future instrument to the multidimensional challenges Europe is facing cannot be answered in one sentence.

European Journal of Futures Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

The questioning route began with some introductory questions concerning names, location of workplace and experience in tobacco preventive work.

BMC Pediatrics

I ask him a few general introductory questions before he is called back inside.

The Guardian

Here we will present an overview of the laboratory, along with some introductory questions.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The introductory questions and 36 items, which contribute to the diagnostic algorithm of the ADI-R, were subjected to content analysis and stepwise discriminant function analysis.

Research in Developmental Disabilities

During the interviews, some important qualitative results were obtained by asking some introductory questions.

Journal of Shipping and Trade

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When designing questionnaires or interview guides, ensure the "introductory question" is clear, concise, and easily understood to encourage participation and gather relevant information.

Common error

Avoid framing your "introductory question" too broadly. A vague question might yield unfocused responses. Instead, aim for a question that is specific enough to guide the respondent toward relevant answers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "introductory question" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object within a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to denote a question designed to begin a discussion, survey, or interview.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "introductory question" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that refers to a question used to begin a discussion or survey. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and the analysis shows that it is most commonly found in science and news contexts. While not extremely frequent, it's a valuable term for researchers, interviewers, and anyone seeking to start a conversation effectively. Consider using alternative phrases like "opening question" or "preliminary question" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opening question

Emphasizes the role of the question in starting a conversation or inquiry.

initial inquiry

Highlights the aspect of seeking information at the beginning of a process.

preliminary question

Suggests a question asked before getting into more detailed matters.

lead-in question

Focuses on the question's role in guiding the conversation.

starting question

Simple and direct alternative emphasizing the act of beginning.

icebreaker question

Implies a question used to ease tension or create a relaxed atmosphere at the start.

opening gambit

Suggests a strategic beginning to a conversation or negotiation.

basic question

Highlights the fundamental nature of the question being asked at the outset.

probing question

Question intends to gather some information at the beginning of something.

primer question

Used as a base before other topics.

FAQs

How do I effectively use the phrase "introductory question" in research?

In research, use an "introductory question" to set the stage for a topic or gather baseline information. It helps participants ease into the subject matter and provides context for subsequent, more detailed inquiries. Make sure it's clear, concise and engaging.

What are some good alternatives to "introductory question"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "opening question", "preliminary question", or "initial inquiry". Each carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your specific need.

What's the purpose of an "introductory question" in an interview?

An "introductory question" in an interview serves to put the interviewee at ease, establish rapport, and gather initial insights. It is meant to ease them into the topic.

Can an "introductory question" be open-ended or should it be closed?

An "introductory question" can be either open-ended or closed, but open-ended questions are generally preferred as they encourage more detailed and thoughtful responses. A closed question prompts a simple yes/no answer, which may limit the initial exploration of the topic.