point of inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "point of inquiry" is a correct and valid phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a topic or a question that you want to discuss or explore further. For example, "This novel raises a lot of interesting points of inquiry that I would like to further explore in my paper."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Also, a podcast with Point of Inquiry.

The New York Times

Michael Mann discusses the book with Chris Mooney on Point of Inquiry.

Columbia University

Whether it has done so must be the point of inquiry.

Cornell University

The first point of inquiry is with respect to the status of appellant.

Cornell University

Perjury, in law, the giving of false testimony under oath on an issue or point of inquiry regarded as material.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What he was doing on the road at all that evening has since emerged as a point of inquiry.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The exhibition's curator, Michelle Ho, believes the points of inquiry in Mr. Utarit's works are what most differentiate him from his contemporaries.

The New York Times - Arts

His multidisciplinary approach led him to identify several points of inquiry: the viewing problem; the scrambling problem; the inter-relation problem; the custodial problem, and the translation problem.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

At once celebratory, serious, and challenging, the collection gracefully offers new points of inquiry for considering an artist whose core questions remain wonderfully unresolved.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

There were legitimate points of inquiry, such as whether the aid given to some African countries disappears into corrupt pockets a question that could, in theory, lead to a serious discussion about whether it is more efficient to focus on investment than on assistance.

The New Yorker

They praised the "objectivity" of his analysis and embraced the points of inquiry he defined.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "point of inquiry", ensure it clearly identifies the specific question or topic being investigated or discussed. Avoid vague references.

Common error

Avoid using "point of inquiry" when referring to broad areas of research. It should pinpoint a specific question or topic, not an entire field of study.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "point of inquiry" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It designates a specific question or issue that is the focus of attention. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and found in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "point of inquiry" is a noun phrase denoting a specific question or topic that needs further investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and suggests it's suitable for various formal contexts. The phrase is generally uncommon, appearing in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias. When using "point of inquiry", ensure it precisely identifies the question at hand to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "subject of investigation" or "key question" can be considered for nuanced expression. Its presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key question

Highlights the importance of the question being asked.

central issue

Focuses on the core problem or topic at hand.

core topic

Emphasizes the central theme or subject.

subject of investigation

Focuses on the investigative aspect, highlighting what is being examined.

principal question

Highlights the importance and rank of the question.

primary focus

Emphasizes the main area of attention.

area of focus

Focuses on the specific area or domain being examined.

matter under consideration

Emphasizes the deliberative aspect, suggesting something being carefully thought about.

main concern

Highlights what is most worrisome or significant.

the crux of the matter

Identifies the most important or decisive point.

FAQs

How can I use "point of inquiry" in a sentence?

You can use "point of inquiry" to introduce a specific question or topic that needs further investigation. For example, "The defendant's alibi became the central "point of inquiry" during the trial".

What are some alternatives to "point of inquiry"?

Alternatives include "subject of investigation", "key question", or "central issue" depending on the context.

Is "point of inquiry" formal or informal?

"Point of inquiry" is generally considered a formal phrase suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. More informal alternatives may be appropriate for casual conversation.

What's the difference between "point of inquiry" and "topic of inquiry"?

"Point of inquiry" refers to a specific question or issue being investigated, whereas "topic of inquiry" refers to a broader subject area. The "topic of inquiry" might encompass several points.