question for which

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question for which" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific question that is being discussed or addressed. Example: "The question for which we seek an answer is whether the new policy will be effective."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is the question for which nobody has an answer.

Independent

It is a question for which Ernst has no answer.

The New York Times - Sports

posing a question for which there seems no obvious answer.

The Guardian - Music

The question for which the meeting had been called remained unsolved.

The New Yorker

Bush stumbled, repeatedly, over a question for which he had had years to prepare.

The Guardian

This is a question for which I don't need an honest answer.

The New York Times

This is a good question for which I have no answer.

The Guardian - Opinion

Comparing scoring systems is a mathematical question for which there is a quantifiable answer.

The New York Times - Sports

For the chance to win, simply answer the question: for which film did Paul Newman win an Oscar?

Independent

Whether everyone should reduce his or her salt intake is a separate question, for which the debate continues.

The New York Times

Heads bent, avoiding eye contact, and sullenly postured like the punctuation at the end of a question for which there is no answer — What the fuck?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question for which", ensure that the connection between the question and the subsequent information is clear and logical.

Common error

Avoid using "question for which" in informal contexts; simpler alternatives like "question that" or rephrasing the sentence are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question for which" functions as a relative clause, linking a question to information that provides context, explanation, or an answer. As noted by Ludwig AI, its usability is confirmed across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "question for which" is a grammatically correct and frequently employed phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in formal writing, scientific literature, and news articles, it serves to connect a question to related details or answers. While effective in formal contexts, simpler alternatives might be preferable in casual communication. Remember that this phrase functions as a relative clause, linking an inquiry to its context, and ensure the connection is clear to maintain coherence. Finally, note the existence of multiple alternatives, and the slight nuances of the context when using each of them.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

query for which

Replaces "question" with "query", focusing on the act of seeking information.

issue for which

Substitutes "question" with "issue", highlighting a point of debate or concern.

problem for which

Changes "question" to "problem", emphasizing a difficulty needing resolution.

matter regarding which

Rephrases the entire construct to use "matter regarding", adding formality.

inquiry for which

Replaces "question" with "inquiry", denoting a formal investigation.

topic for which

Substitutes "question" with "topic", focusing on the subject of discussion.

area in which

Alters the structure to focus on a specific area related to the question.

point that

Uses "point that" instead of "question for which", simplifying the construction.

aspect where

Shifts the perspective to a specific aspect needing consideration.

subject where

Replaces "question" with "subject", changing the focus slightly.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "question for which" in a sentence?

You can use alternatives like "question that", "the question to which", or simply restructure the sentence to avoid the phrase altogether.

When is it appropriate to use "question for which"?

The phrase "question for which" is most appropriate in formal writing or when emphasizing the connection between a question and its answer. It's common in academic, scientific, and news contexts.

Is "question for which" always necessary, or can I use a simpler alternative?

While grammatically correct, "question for which" can sometimes sound stilted. Consider simpler alternatives like "the question that" or rewriting the sentence for clarity and conciseness.

What is the difference between "question for which" and "the question that"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and similar in meaning. "Question for which" is slightly more formal and emphasizes the relationship between the question and what follows, while "the question that" is more common and less formal.