question of you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question of you" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where someone is referring to a matter or issue related to a person, but it is not commonly used. Example: "There is a question of you being able to attend the meeting next week."

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It's not just a question of you, but your friends.

The New York Times

It's a question of: you said, we do".

The Guardian

D.D.: Was there ever any question of you writing the screenplay, Michael?

The New Yorker

As it is, I'd like to ask a different question of you.

Independent

MR. PRESSMAN -- Let me ask a teachers type question of you, Mrs. Clinton.

The New York Times

LL But it was just a question of, you believed in it so much.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

While there are plenty of genuine love stories here between brasileiras and turistas, and plenty more cold fee-for-service transactions, it's often not a simple question of you-paid-or-you-didn't.

Huffington Post

Assessing performance is also about watching whether your accountant asks the right questions of you, too.

The Guardian

My brain was so sluggish I asked few questions of you.

The Washington Post

One that would generate times-tables, and some would ask questions of you and then you messages or give advice.

The Guardian

They ask questions of you.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question of you", consider if a more direct phrasing like "question for you" would be clearer and more readily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "question of you" when a simpler, more direct question addressed to the person is intended. The phrase can sometimes sound indirect or overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question of you" functions as a noun phrase acting as the subject or object complement in a sentence. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase may cause confusion because it is not standard in written English, so the primary function involves introducing a topic or query related to the individual being addressed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

18%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "question of you" is analyzed by Ludwig as a potentially confusing phrasing, although it appears in various sources. While technically acceptable, it is often better to opt for clearer alternatives like "question for you" or "matter concerning you". Its primary function is to initiate a discussion related to an individual, but its usage may come across as indirect. The contexts where it is found are primarily news, media, and academic settings, but simple rephrasing may provide increased clarity in almost all communication scenarios. Always consider if a direct question addressed to the person would be more appropriate. In summary, while not incorrect, be mindful of clarity when using "question of you".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

question for you

More direct and common way to address a question to someone.

issue regarding you

Similar to "matter concerning you", but slightly less formal.

matter concerning you

More formal and indirect way of referring to an issue.

query about you

Focuses on seeking information specifically about the person.

a concern related to you

Emphasizes potential worry or problem.

something I want to ask you

Highlights the act of asking and personal intent.

a problem involving you

Indicates a potential difficulty or conflict.

an inquiry pertaining to you

Very formal and official-sounding alternative.

a subject regarding you

Broad term, suitable for various discussions.

a point about you

More general, can refer to a characteristic or feature.

FAQs

What does "question of you" mean?

The phrase "question of you" is not a standard English expression, but it generally refers to a question or matter concerning you. Consider using clearer alternatives such as "question for you" or "matter concerning you".

When is it appropriate to use "question of you"?

While grammatically acceptable, "question of you" may sound awkward or indirect. It is best used when referring to a matter that specifically concerns someone, but simpler alternatives may be preferred for clarity. For instance, consider "issue regarding you" in formal contexts.

What are some alternatives to "question of you"?

Several alternatives can replace "question of you", depending on the context. Common options include "question for you", "matter concerning you", "issue regarding you", and "query about you".

Is "question of you" grammatically correct?

While "question of you" is not strictly grammatically incorrect, it is an uncommon phrasing. It is generally understandable, but a more standard phrase like "question for you" is often clearer and more appropriate.