persistent question

USAGE SUMMARY

"persistent question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic phrase used to describe a question that continues to be asked, typically one that is difficult to answer. For example: The persistent question of why the economic recession happened has yet to be answered.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

In Facebook's shadow, there is also a persistent question about the weakness of Chinese innovation.

The New Yorker

How much of a difference they made is a persistent question.

The New Yorker

On the environment side, there are persistent question marks over double counting.

The Guardian

But it remained the first and most persistent question on my mind.

The Guardian - Film

The announcement therefore raised another persistent question: Does this mean there's life on Mars?

The New Yorker

A persistent question among paleoanthropologists is how far back this similarity goes.

The New Yorker

It answers a very stupid but persistent question: Where are the women writers?

The New York Times

Soon after, his use of the nonword "subliminable" brought back the persistent question of his intellectual capabilities.

The New York Times

That persistent question -- why some people are more responsive to placebos than others -- has long frustrated scientists.

The New York Times

But I had never been in a museum where the persistent question is: what kind of place is this?

The New York Times - Arts

Courtroom battles over file-sharing — as well as the persistent question of whether copying is "stealing" — are old hat.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "persistent question" to highlight an issue or inquiry that has been raised repeatedly and remains unresolved over time. It adds emphasis to the enduring nature of the question.

Common error

Avoid using "persistent question" for simple or easily answered inquiries. This phrase is most effective when describing complex, long-standing issues that lack clear solutions. Overusing the phrase can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "persistent question" functions as a noun phrase, where "persistent" modifies the noun "question". It emphasizes the continuous and unresolved nature of the inquiry. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts to highlight enduring issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

23%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "persistent question" effectively highlights enduring and unresolved inquiries across diverse fields. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media and Science. When using "persistent question", ensure it reflects a complex, long-standing issue, not a trivial one. Alternatives such as "recurring query" or "lingering doubt" can add nuance. Remember its neutral register allows for broad applicability, but its impact is greatest when addressing significant, unresolved matters.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recurring query

This alternative emphasizes the repetitive nature of the question being asked.

lingering doubt

This emphasizes the uncertainty and unresolved nature associated with the question.

nagging inquiry

This suggests a question that is bothersome and difficult to dismiss.

unresolved issue

This shifts the focus from the question itself to the underlying problem that remains unaddressed.

unsettled matter

This suggests the question is still open for discussion and resolution.

vexing issue

This highlights the frustrating or irritating nature of the question.

enduring puzzle

This highlights the long-standing and challenging nature of the question.

constant dilemma

This emphasizes the challenging choice or situation that the question presents.

chronic problem

This alternative stresses that the question is part of a long term problematic situation.

perpetual debate

This indicates an ongoing discussion or disagreement surrounding the question.

FAQs

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

You can use "persistent question" to describe an ongoing inquiry or issue that has not been resolved. For instance, "The "persistent question" of climate change continues to challenge scientists and policymakers alike."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "persistent question"?

Alternatives to "persistent question" include "recurring query", "lingering doubt", or "unresolved issue", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "persistent question" in formal writing?

Yes, "persistent question" is appropriate for formal writing. It is commonly used in academic, journalistic, and professional contexts to refer to long-standing and complex issues.

What makes a question "persistent"?

A question is considered "persistent" when it has been raised repeatedly over time without a definitive answer or resolution. It often indicates a complex or challenging issue that requires ongoing attention.