it is tempting to ask

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is tempting to ask" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a curiosity or inclination to inquire about something, often implying that the question may be provocative or challenging. Example: "While discussing the implications of climate change, it is tempting to ask what role individuals can play in making a difference."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

But it is tempting to ask, What does their truth or falsity matter?

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is tempting to ask oneself what Borges would have done with The Fattened Aleph.

The Guardian - Books

So it is tempting to ask: Where is it easiest to be unemployed?

The New York Times

EVERY now and then, it is tempting to ask: what on earth is the point of the Edinburgh Fringe?

The Times

It is tempting to ask how on earth we got into this mess, or even to blame the electors for failing to come to a clear decision.

The Guardian - Opinion

Financial problems contributed to the collapse of the Soviet Union.Nevertheless, with much of the democratic world now in the throes of a debt crisis, it is tempting to ask whether the fears of Madison and Adams have come to pass.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Given a novel in which nearly everyone is a performer, including its author, it's tempting to ask who the "real" Chaplin is.

The New York Times - Books

It's tempting to ask whose work has dated more.

The Guardian - Arts

However, it's tempting to ask whether now, in the second decade of the 21st century, that even matters.

The Guardian - Sport

Infinite Sky is Flood's debut novel, and it's tempting to ask what marks her out.

The Guardian - Books

But given how poorly the strategy often turns out, it's tempting to ask why people are so quick to fire the founder.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is tempting to ask" to introduce a question that might be considered challenging or provocative, but is nonetheless relevant to the discussion. This can add a layer of intrigue and encourage deeper analysis.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "it is tempting to ask" as an introductory phrase. While effective, frequent use can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using alternative phrases like "one might be inclined to ask" or "it raises the question" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is tempting to ask" functions as an introductory device, signaling the imminent posing of a question that the author finds compelling, even if potentially challenging or speculative. Ludwig examples show its versatile usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

41%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is tempting to ask" serves as a valuable introductory phrase, signaling a compelling question worthy of exploration. Ludwig's analysis reveals its grammatical correctness and frequent use across diverse contexts, predominantly within news media and scientific publications. While versatile, maintaining a balance with alternative phrases will enhance writing clarity and style. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase can effectively introduce a question by acknowledging potential implications or sensitivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

one might be inclined to ask

Replaces "it is tempting" with a more formal and cautious tone.

it raises the question

Shifts the focus from temptation to the inherent question.

one is led to wonder

Emphasizes a sense of curiosity and contemplation.

it begs the question

Highlights the obviousness or inevitability of the question.

it prompts the inquiry

Uses a more formal and academic tone.

it makes one want to know

Expresses a more direct and personal desire for information.

the question arises

Focuses on the emergence of the question itself.

it invites speculation

Suggests that the situation encourages conjecture and guesswork.

it seems natural to inquire

Indicates that asking the question is a logical and expected response.

curiosity dictates that we ask

Attributes the inclination to ask to the force of curiosity.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it is tempting to ask" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "one might be inclined to ask" or "the question arises whether". These options add a layer of sophistication suitable for academic or professional contexts.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it is tempting to ask"?

Use "it is tempting to ask" when you want to introduce a question that is relevant to the topic at hand, but might be considered somewhat challenging, provocative, or even slightly controversial. It suggests that the question is worth exploring despite potential difficulties.

What's a more direct alternative to "it is tempting to ask"?

A more direct approach might be to simply state the question directly. However, if you want to retain some of the nuance, you could use phrases like "it begs the question" or "the obvious question is".

How can I avoid overusing "it is tempting to ask" in my writing?

To prevent overuse, try varying your sentence structure and using a mix of introductory phrases. For example, consider using "it raises the question", "one is led to wonder", or even directly stating the question without any introductory phrase at all.