key question of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key question of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing an important or central issue that needs to be addressed or considered in a particular context. Example: "The key question of our discussion today is how we can improve our customer service."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

However, the key question of when payments will be due has yet to be decided.

The Guardian

Participatory planning became a key question of social equity," Ortiz explains.

The Guardian

There's an ideological gulf, too, on the key question of economics.

The Guardian

Today I will be leading a debate in parliament on this key question of oversight of intelligence and security services.

The Guardian - Opinion

(Ian Crouch poses the key question of the Rodriguez saga: What would George do?) "If they're clueless, get a clue.

The New Yorker

The key question, of course, is whether one's response to that call leads to killing or to compassion.

The Guardian - Books

What the public finally decides about this Gothic novel of an election and these two fascinating, highly polarizing personalities is the key question, of course.

The New York Times

But these chapters deal only obliquely with the key question of what, if anything, our schools might actually do to "make good citizens".

The New York Times - Books

The key question of who is to blame will depend on the outcome of the international investigation which the United Nations authorised last week.

The Economist

Mr Cameron and George Osborne, his shadow chancellor, lead Mr Brown and Alistair Darling, the underwhelming actual chancellor, on the key question of economic management.

The Economist

"How confident can we all be that once relaunched that political process is going to be able to deliver that which needs to be delivered, the permanent status issues and the key question of ending the ­occupation?" Fayyad asked.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "key question of", ensure that the question being highlighted is genuinely the most important or central issue under discussion. Avoid overusing the phrase for minor or tangential inquiries.

Common error

Avoid using "key question of" when a simpler phrasing like "main issue" or "important aspect" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key question of" functions as a determiner phrase introducing a noun or noun phrase. It serves to emphasize that the following noun is a central point of inquiry or concern. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

56%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "key question of" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression to highlight a central point of inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it serves to focus attention on the most important question within a discussion. Alternatives like "essential question of" or "primary question of" offer similar emphasis. When employing this phrase, ensure that it genuinely represents the core issue and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. The "key question of" is important, however, it is important to not overstate its importance in order to avoid sounding hyperbolic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

essential question of

This alternative emphasizes the fundamental and indispensable nature of the question.

primary question of

This alternative suggests that the question is the most important or first in order of consideration.

main question of

This alternative indicates the most important or central question being discussed.

central question of

This alternative highlights that the question is at the core or center of the matter.

core question of

Focuses on the most fundamental and essential aspect of the issue at hand.

crucial question of

Emphasizes the critical and decisive importance of the question.

critical question of

Highlights the vital and decisive nature of the question under consideration.

pivotal question of

Suggests that the question is a turning point or crucial factor.

pressing question of

Emphasizes the urgency and importance requiring immediate attention.

fundamental question of

Focuses on the basic and foundational nature of the inquiry.

FAQs

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

The phrase "key question of" is used to introduce a central or critical question within a discussion or analysis. For example, "The "key question of" the debate is whether the proposed policy will actually reduce poverty."

What is a good alternative to "key question of"?

Alternatives to "key question of" include phrases like "essential question of", "primary question of", or "main question of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "the key question is" instead of "the key question of"?

While "the key question is" is grammatically correct, "the "key question of"" is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase that specifies the subject or context of the question. For example, "The key question is whether we can afford it" vs. "The "key question of" funding remains unresolved."

What's the difference between "key issue" and "key question of"?

"Key issue" refers to a significant topic or problem, while ""key question of"" specifically introduces a central inquiry related to that issue. A key issue might be climate change, and a "key question of" climate change is how to reduce carbon emissions.