question at length

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question at length" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a topic or issue in detail, often implying a thorough examination or exploration of the question. Example: "During the meeting, we decided to question at length the implications of the new policy changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

He said he will respond to Leveson's question at length later.

The Guardian

Dr. W. Montague Cobb could have answered that question at length.

The New York Times

Both men discussed the legacy question at length in separate interviews.

The New York Times

Both men discussed the legacy question at length in interviews Wednesday.

The New York Times - Sports

Without attempting at this time to deal with the question at length, we deem it sufficient for the present purpose to say that we are unable to approve this narrow view of the requirement of due process.

Cornell University

In an interview, Mr. Porter said that he had discussed the question at length with Speaker Newt Gingrich, and that Mr. Gingrich "supports doubling the N.I.H. budget in five years, within the overall context of a balanced budget". At a forum on health issues in Smyrna, Ga., in November, Mr. Gingrich said he wanted to double spending on biological research.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"He was questioned at length.

The New York Times

The Syrians, the Jacobsens and others were questioned at length.

The New York Times

Stopped at the border, he was questioned at length about his family.

The Washington Post

Although Mendez's mother was questioned at length, nobody has been charged in the case.

The New Yorker

Several UDA/UFF members were questioned at length in the weeks after Finucane's murder.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to stress the thoroughness of an inquiry or discussion, use the phrase. For example, "The suspect was questioned at length about his whereabouts on the night of the crime."

Common error

Avoid using "question at length" in casual contexts. It implies a significant level of scrutiny, so it would be inappropriate for everyday inquiries. Using it incorrectly can make your writing sound overly dramatic or formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question at length" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used to describe the action of asking questions in a detailed and thorough manner. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It is commonly found within sentences where an interrogation or detailed inquiry is being described.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "question at length" is a grammatically sound and semantically rich expression used to convey a detailed and thorough inquiry. As Ludwig AI indicates, its usage is correct and appropriate across various contexts, although more prevalent in news, academic, and scientific domains. While alternatives like "examine in detail" or "discuss thoroughly" exist, they each offer slightly different nuances. When employing this phrase, consider the intensity and formality it implies, reserving it for situations where a significant level of scrutiny or detailed discussion is warranted. Keep in mind that it's not recommended to use the phrase in informal conversation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delve into at length

Similar meaning but replaces "question" with "delve into".

interrogate extensively

Highlights a more formal and prolonged questioning process.

discuss thoroughly

Emphasizes a comprehensive discussion, removing the direct interrogation aspect.

inquire deeply into

Focuses on seeking information thoroughly.

examine in detail

Focuses on the act of careful examination rather than the specific act of questioning.

probe deeply

Suggests an investigation that goes beyond surface-level questions.

investigate fully

Focuses on a complete investigation of a matter.

explore comprehensively

Indicates a broad exploration of a topic, not necessarily through direct questions.

analyze extensively

Highlights a detailed analytical process.

consider carefully

Emphasizes thoughtful deliberation rather than direct questioning.

FAQs

How can I use "question at length" in a sentence?

You can use "question at length" to indicate that someone was interrogated thoroughly or a topic was discussed in great detail. For example: "The committee decided to "discuss thoroughly" the implications of the new policy changes."

What are some alternatives to "question at length"?

Alternatives include "examine in detail", "discuss thoroughly", or "interrogate extensively", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "questioned on length" instead of "question at length"?

No, "questioned on length" is not a standard English phrase and would be considered grammatically incorrect. The correct phrase is "question at length", which means to interrogate or discuss something thoroughly.

What is the difference between "question at length" and "discuss in detail"?

"Question at length" typically implies a more formal or investigative inquiry, while "discuss in detail" suggests a comprehensive conversation. Use "question at length" when there is an element of interrogation or scrutiny. "Discuss in detail" is more neutral and suitable for general detailed discussions.