rebound the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'rebound the question' is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is an idiom that means to respond to a question by asking a different question. For example, "Q: Why are you so angry? A: Why do you think I'm angry? [Rebound the question.]".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

While optimists may see Russia on the path to an economic rebound, the question of "whether" a revival is on the horizon is far less complicated than the question of "when".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Rebound the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

"You just had to rebound the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

And if investors are reassured by the rebound last week, the question of how to value technology companies is likely to remain important for some time.

The New York Times

Both rebounded the next year.

The New York Times

He rebounds the ball.

The New York Times - Sports

The Pacers out-rebounded the Knicks, 44-30.

The New York Times - Sports

The Spurs out-rebounded the Heat 52-36.

Huffington Post

But given his transgressions, his reputation and how quickly he rebounded, his hiring raises the question: is there anything coaches cannot get away with so as long as they win?

The New York Times - Sports

But, he added, "even after the company rebounds, a bigger question still is where is the long-term growth".

The New York Times

Yet until the economy rebounds, questions like "Will I have enough to retire comfortably?" and "Do my spouse and children need a larger inheritance than I previously assumed?" are likely to keep distracting donors from philanthropy.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rebound the question" when you want to strategically shift the focus of a discussion or challenge the assumptions behind an inquiry, rather than providing a direct answer.

Common error

Avoid using "rebound the question" in formal or professional settings where directness and transparency are valued. It can be perceived as evasive or disrespectful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rebound the question" functions as a metalinguistic commentary, describing a specific rhetorical strategy. As Ludwig AI points out, it's an idiom that means responding to a question with a different question.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "rebound the question" describes a tactic of answering a question with another question. As Ludwig AI states, this idiom is grammatically correct but relatively rare in usage, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. The phrase itself functions as a metalinguistic commentary, labeling the act of redirecting or deflecting an inquiry. Using "rebound the question" effectively requires an understanding of context and a strategic approach to communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Turn the question around

Focuses on redirecting the original question back to the inquirer.

Answer a question with a question

Highlights the act of responding to an inquiry with another question.

Deflect the inquiry

Emphasizes avoidance in answering the original question directly.

Counter with a question

Implies challenging the premise of the original question.

Respond indirectly

Suggests providing an answer that does not directly address the question.

Evade the question

Focuses on intentionally avoiding giving a straight answer.

Parry the question

Emphasizes skillfully avoiding a direct response.

Redirect the conversation

Suggests changing the subject away from the initial question.

Challenge the question

Involves questioning the validity or relevance of the original question.

Shift the focus

Indicates a change in the point of discussion away from the direct inquiry.

FAQs

How can I use "rebound the question" in a conversation?

You can use "rebound the question" to deflect or challenge an inquiry by responding with another question instead of a direct answer. This can shift the focus or encourage deeper consideration of the initial question.

What's a less confrontational way to "rebound the question"?

Instead of directly deflecting, try acknowledging the question's importance while framing your response as another related question. This softens the redirection and maintains a collaborative tone.

Is it ever appropriate to not "rebound the question"?

Yes, direct and honest answers are crucial in situations requiring transparency and trust. Avoid "rebounding the question" when clarity and accountability are paramount.

What does it mean to "turn the question around", and how does that relate to "rebound the question"?

To "turn the question around" is a more generic way to describe redirecting an inquiry back to the questioner. "Rebound the question" is a specific, more vivid way to describe this conversational technique.