question the obvious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question the obvious" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is used to express the idea of thinking more deeply than what is immediately apparent. For example, you could use it as follows: "Before making any decisions, it is important to always question the obvious to ensure the most successful outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Do not question the obvious: drink the Kool Aid.

The Guardian

So he is able to question the obvious.

The Guardian - Tech

Executives must question the obvious and address challenges with new, multi-layered approaches.

Harvard Business Review

He continued: "Adolph Ochs used to say, 'I always question the obvious,' and Punch was like his grandfather in that regard.

The New York Times

"Farhan has no experience-bias when he comes to my office, so he is able to question the obvious," Beane told The Guardian in an interview last year.

The Guardian - Sport

The goal of this research is to allow the students to question the obvious: how he most mundane and familiar aspects of housing typologies become instrumental in making homes "factories of subjectivity" in which dwelling is captured by forms of economic exploitation.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

They questioned the obvious, the accepted and the "natural".

The New York Times

The old acquaintance was New York jumpy and filled with questions — the obvious ones, inspired by current events.

The New Yorker

And the question here, the obvious one: population or one state, one vote.

Yale University

If the question is obvious, the answer isn't.

The Guardian

If the question was obvious enough, the answer was not.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "question the obvious", follow up with specific questions that prompt further exploration and critical thinking. Avoid using the phrase as a standalone statement without supporting inquiry.

Common error

Avoid using "question the obvious" as a mere cliché. Always provide a clear rationale or follow-up questions to guide the critical examination you're advocating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question the obvious" functions primarily as a call to action, urging individuals to critically examine assumptions and conventional wisdom. It encourages a deeper level of analysis and prevents reliance on superficial understanding, as seen in examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "question the obvious" serves as a powerful prompt for critical thinking, urging us to challenge assumptions and seek deeper understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and finds usage across various contexts, particularly in news, academia, and science. Its neutral register allows for versatile application, making it suitable for both formal and informal discourse. By challenging the surface level and encouraging thoughtful inquiry, this phrase unlocks new perspectives and drives meaningful progress. So, let us all "question the obvious" and embark on a journey of discovery.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

challenge assumptions

This alternative directly emphasizes the act of challenging underlying assumptions, shifting the focus from the obvious to the foundation of ideas.

challenge conventional wisdom

This phrase targets widely accepted beliefs, implying that the obvious may be based on flawed or outdated ideas.

scrutinize assumptions

This alternative emphasizes a more rigorous and detailed examination of underlying assumptions.

think critically

This alternative broadens the scope to encompass general critical thinking, rather than specifically targeting the obvious.

rethink established ideas

This alternative stresses the need to reconsider ideas that have already been put in place or accepted.

look beyond the surface

This phrase shifts the focus to superficiality, suggesting a need to dig deeper to find the real meaning.

examine the underlying principles

This alternative shifts the focus to the foundational principles or rules that govern a concept or idea.

probe deeper

This option suggests a more active and investigative approach to uncover hidden information.

investigate further

This phrase means to continue research or inquiry into something; probe deeper.

look at the issue from a different angle

This suggests considering a problem from an alternative point of view to uncover new and potentially unexpected insights.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "question the obvious" in a presentation?

In a presentation, use "question the obvious" to introduce a shift in perspective or challenge a commonly held belief. Follow up with data or evidence that supports the need for a reevaluation. For example, you might say: "Let's "question the obvious" – are our current marketing strategies truly reaching our target demographic, or are we relying on outdated assumptions?"

What does it mean to "question the obvious" in academic research?

In academic research, "question the obvious" means challenging established theories or methodologies. It involves critically examining the assumptions underlying existing knowledge and seeking alternative explanations or approaches. It also invites to "think critically" about potential biases or limitations in previous studies.

Is "question the obvious" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "question the obvious" is suitable for formal writing when used to introduce critical analysis or challenge assumptions. However, ensure that the tone remains professional and objective. In more formal contexts, you may consider alternatives like "challenge assumptions" or "critically examine the prevailing understanding".

What's the difference between "question the obvious" and simply being skeptical?

"Question the obvious" involves a deliberate effort to challenge assumptions and explore alternative perspectives, whereas skepticism is a more general attitude of doubt or disbelief. While skepticism can prompt one to "question the obvious", the latter is a more directed and intentional process of critical examination. You can also "challenge conventional wisdom".