remains a question

USAGE SUMMARY

"remains a question" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that a particular issue or matter is still unresolved. For example, "How the blockchain can be used to create safer online payments remains a question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Just how long she will remain free remains a question.

The New York Times

It remains a question.

The New Yorker

Lust remains "a question without an answer".

The New Yorker

His health, though, remains a question mark.

The New York Times

Mr. Condit's political future remains a question.

The New York Times

Why this is so remains a question.

The New York Times - Health

The United States remains a question mark.

The New York Times

But whether any progress has been made remains a question.

The New York Times - Sports

But whether it can be done remains a question.

The New York Times

For now, the course remains a question mark.

The New York Times - Sports

How to pay for the stadium remains a question.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remains a question" to introduce uncertainty or lack of resolution in a formal or academic context. It's more suitable than informal alternatives like "up in the air".

Common error

Avoid using "remains a question" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler phrases like "we don't know yet" or "it's not clear" to maintain an appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remains a question" functions as a linking phrase used to introduce uncertainty or a lack of resolution regarding a particular topic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it correctly conveys that an issue has not been definitively answered or settled. Examples show it introducing topics still under consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "remains a question" is a versatile tool for expressing uncertainty or unresolved status in written English. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for indicating that an issue or matter is still open for discussion. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its frequent use in news, scientific, and formal contexts to introduce points of uncertainty. While "remains a question" is commonly used, avoid overuse in informal conversations, as simpler phrases may be more appropriate. Related phrases like "is an open question" or "remains unresolved" offer similar meanings with slightly different emphasis. Remember to consider the context and desired level of formality when choosing your words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is an open question

Highlights that there's no consensus or clear answer.

is an unanswered question

Directly states that no answer has been found.

remains unresolved

Focuses on the lack of resolution rather than framing it as a question.

is still uncertain

Emphasizes the uncertainty surrounding the topic.

is yet to be determined

Highlights the future aspect of finding an answer or solution.

continues to be debated

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the discussion.

is subject to debate

Indicates ongoing discussion and disagreement.

is a matter of conjecture

Suggests the topic is based on speculation rather than facts.

is a lingering doubt

Highlights the persistence of uncertainty.

is still up in the air

Informal way of saying the issue is unresolved.

FAQs

How can I use "remains a question" in a sentence?

Use "remains a question" to indicate that something is still uncertain or unresolved, such as "Whether the project will succeed "remains a question"".

What are some alternatives to "remains a question"?

You can use phrases like "is still uncertain", "is yet to be determined", or "is an open question" depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "remains a question" or "remained a question"?

"Remains a question" is for present uncertainties, while "remained a question" is for past uncertainties that were never resolved during that specific time. Choose based on the time frame you're discussing.

What is the difference between "remains an issue" and "remains a question"?

"Remains an issue" highlights a persistent problem or concern, while "remains a question" emphasizes the lack of a definite answer or solution. The choice depends on whether you want to focus on the problem itself or the uncertainty surrounding it.