question of fact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question of fact" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal contexts to refer to a dispute regarding the truth of factual assertions. Example: "In this case, the jury must determine the question of fact regarding whether the defendant was present at the scene of the crime."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Legally, this is a question of fact: does Israel control east Jerusalem or not?

The Guardian - Opinion

But whether or not a given concept is instantiated is a question of fact.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"You get very haunted by this question of fact, of making it absolutely right".

The New York Times - Books

Neither the DT or the refereeing delegations can change a question of fact.

The Guardian - Sport

As for damages, he said, "That's a question of fact for trial".

The New York Times

This too is a question of fact, not opinion, to which there's been considerable analysis.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

While Dr. Marantz referred to facts as they pertain to clinical researchers, the question of facts at the heart of this movement is focused on scientific literacy.

Huffington Post

There's questions of fact that have to be resolved on these charges".

The New York Times

There are simply too many questions of fact here not to send this to trial.

The New York Times

I can answer simple questions of fact but I am stretched through the election".

The New York Times

The Supreme Court of Japan serves as a final appeals court on questions of fact, law, and constitutional compatibility.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question of fact" in legal writing, clearly identify the specific fact in dispute. This ensures the judge and jury understand the issue they must decide.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "question of law" as a "question of fact". A "question of fact" concerns what happened, while a "question of law" concerns how the law applies to those facts. Misclassifying them can lead to legal errors.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question of fact" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies an issue that requires empirical evidence or factual verification to resolve, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

21%

Science

18%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "question of fact" is a common noun phrase used to denote an issue that needs to be resolved through empirical evidence, often in legal or analytical contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. To enhance clarity in writing, it's crucial to distinguish "questions of fact" from "questions of law", focusing on factual determinations rather than legal interpretations. Alternatives like "matter of fact" and "factual question" can provide stylistic variation while maintaining semantic accuracy. This phrase is widely applicable but requires precise usage to avoid misinterpretations. The expert rating confirms the reliability and validity of the phrase in different source types.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter of fact

Replaces "question" with "matter", focusing on the factual nature of the issue.

factual question

Inverts the order, emphasizing the factual nature before the inquiry.

issue of fact

Substitutes "question" with "issue", highlighting a point of contention.

point of fact

Replaces "question" with "point", indicating a specific detail.

factual determination

Focuses on the act of establishing the truth rather than the inquiry itself.

evidentiary matter

Shifts the emphasis to the evidence involved in resolving the issue.

factual dispute

Highlights the disagreement surrounding the facts.

objective reality

Focuses on the existence of a provable, external truth.

empirical inquiry

Emphasizes the need for observation and experimentation to resolve the issue.

verifiable claim

Highlights the need to prove the accuracy of a statement.

FAQs

How is a "question of fact" different from a "question of law"?

A "question of fact" pertains to what actually occurred, while a "question of law" concerns the correct interpretation and application of legal principles. Juries decide "questions of fact", while judges typically rule on questions of law.

What are some examples of a "question of fact" in a trial?

Examples include determining whether a defendant was at the scene of a crime, whether a contract was breached, or whether a statement was made with malicious intent. These are all factual issues that must be resolved based on evidence presented.

What happens if there's uncertainty about a "question of fact" in trust?

Evidential uncertainty about a "question of fact", such as identifying a beneficiary, doesn't automatically invalidate the trust. However, it could lead to legal challenges if the uncertainty cannot be resolved.

In administrative law, how does a "question of fact" relate to standing?

In administrative law, standing to sue involves a mixed "question of fact" and law. The court evaluates both legal principles and the specific facts to determine if the applicant has the right to bring the case.