question to answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question to answer" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that you have a question which needs to be answered. For example: "I have a difficult question to answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"That's a simple question to answer.

The New Yorker

That is a difficult question to answer.

The Economist

That's the easiest question to answer.

The New York Times

That's a hard question to answer.

The New Yorker

It's an impossible question to answer.

The New York Times

"It's a tough question to answer".

The New York Times

Not an easy question to answer.

The New York Times - Arts

Which shouted question to answer?

The New Yorker

"It's a very hard question to answer.

The New Yorker

That's a very hard question to answer.

The Economist

That's a more complicated question to answer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "question to answer", ensure the context clearly indicates that a response or resolution is expected. Avoid ambiguity by specifying who is expected to answer and within what timeframe, if relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "question to answer" in contexts where the act of answering is not intentional or required. For example, instead of saying 'The mystery was a question to answer', use 'The mystery needed to be solved'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question to answer" functions as a noun phrase, identifying something that requires a response. Ludwig provides numerous examples where it acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating its role in framing inquiries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

25%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "question to answer" is a versatile and commonly used expression that identifies a query or problem requiring a response. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, including news, science, and academic writing. While alternatives such as "inquiry to address" or "problem to solve" may be more appropriate in certain formal settings, "question to answer" remains a clear and effective way to frame the need for a resolution or response.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Inquiry to address

Focuses on addressing an inquiry, highlighting the action of dealing with a question.

Problem to solve

Shifts the context to problem-solving, emphasizing the need to find a solution.

Matter to resolve

Suggests a formal or official issue that needs to be settled or decided.

Issue to clarify

Focuses on making an issue clearer, emphasizing the need for better understanding.

Point to consider

Highlights the importance of thinking about a specific aspect or detail.

Challenge to tackle

Emphasizes the difficulty and effort required to deal with a problem.

Topic to discuss

Indicates a subject that needs to be talked about or examined.

Area to explore

Suggests an investigation or study of a particular field or subject.

Puzzle to unravel

Implies a mystery or complex situation that needs to be understood.

Dilemma to confront

Focuses on facing a difficult choice or situation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "question to answer" in a formal setting?

In a formal setting, consider using phrases like "inquiry to address", "matter to resolve", or "issue to clarify" to maintain a professional tone. The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "question to answer" and "problem to solve"?

"Question to answer" generally refers to a query requiring a response. "Problem to solve" implies a challenge needing a solution, often involving more complex reasoning than a simple answer.

Is "question to answer" suitable for academic writing?

Yes, "question to answer" is acceptable for academic writing, particularly when discussing research questions or hypotheses. However, more precise language might be preferable depending on the field and specific context. Consider options like "hypothesis to test" or "inquiry to investigate".

Can "question to answer" be used interchangeably with "topic to discuss"?

While related, they aren't always interchangeable. "Question to answer" implies a specific query needing resolution, while "topic to discuss" refers to a broader subject for conversation or analysis. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intent of your communication.