loaded question

USAGE SUMMARY

"loaded question" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
A loaded question is a question that is designed to trick or manipulate the person being asked into giving a specific answer that may not accurately reflect their true thoughts or feelings. It is often used as a rhetorical or persuasive tactic. One example of a loaded question would be, "Have you stopped cheating on tests yet?" This question assumes that the person being asked has been cheating on tests, and puts them in a difficult position to either admit to the accusation or deny it. It is a manipulative question that may not accurately reflect the truth.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such a loaded question requires some explanation.

Cornell University

It's a bizarrely loaded question.

Huffington Post

The issue of destiny is loaded question.

Huffington Post

Now we come to a loaded question choice.

Huffington Post

Loaded question Loaded has appointed Julie Burchill to be its agony aunt.

Independent

That's a loaded question.

The New York Times - Magazine

A.Wow, man, that's a loaded question.

The New York Times

(Maybe that's a loaded question).

The New Yorker

That's a bit of a loaded question.

Harvard Business Review

That's a loaded question at this point.

The Guardian - Music

This has always been a loaded question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Be aware of the manipulative potential of "loaded questions" in debates or discussions. Use them carefully and ethically.

Common error

Avoid labeling a question as "loaded" simply because it's challenging or uncomfortable. Ensure the question truly contains a hidden premise or bias before using the term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loaded question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "loaded" modifies the noun "question". It identifies a particular type of question characterized by its implicit assumptions or manipulative intent. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis reveals that "loaded question" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase. Ludwig AI validates its frequent appearance across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media. It serves the purpose of calling out questions with implicit assumptions or manipulative intentions. Alternatives like "leading question" or "trick question" can be employed depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using the phrase, be mindful of its implications and ensure the question genuinely contains a bias before labeling it as such.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading question

Focuses on the suggestive nature of the question, directing the respondent towards a particular answer.

trick question

Emphasizes the deceptive or misleading aspect of the question.

complex question

Highlights the intricate and multifaceted nature of the question, making it difficult to answer simply.

rhetorical question

Indicates that the question is posed for effect rather than to elicit a genuine answer.

hypothetical question

Suggests the question is based on a theoretical or speculative scenario.

probing question

Emphasizes the intent to delve deeply and uncover hidden information.

insidious question

Highlights the subtle and potentially harmful nature of the question.

pointed question

Emphasizes the direct and often challenging nature of the question.

double-edged question

Suggests the question could have both positive and negative implications for the respondent.

delicate question

Highlights that the question needs to be addressed with sensitivity and care.

FAQs

What exactly does "loaded question" mean?

A "loaded question" contains an unwarranted presupposition or is designed to trap the person answering into admitting something they might not agree with. It's often used to manipulate or lead the response in a certain direction.

How can I identify a "loaded question"?

Look for questions that assume something to be true before it has been proven or agreed upon. A classic example is, "Have you stopped cheating on tests?" which presumes the person has cheated in the past.

What are some alternatives to saying "loaded question"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "leading question", "trick question", or "complex question".

How should I respond to a "loaded question"?

The best approach is to challenge the underlying assumption. For instance, if someone asks, "Why are you always late?", you could respond by saying, "I don't agree with the assumption that I'm always late."