repeat the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "repeat the question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to say the question again, often for clarity or to ensure understanding. Example: "I'm sorry, I didn't catch that. Could you please repeat the question?"

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Can you repeat the question?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Q: Shall I repeat the question?

The New Yorker

Student: Can you repeat the question?

Yale University

VON RIBBENTROP: Please repeat the question.

Yale University

FRANK: Please, would you repeat the question?

Yale University

AHRENS: Please repeat the question for me.

Yale University

LAHOUSEN: Will you please repeat the question?

Yale University

I'm sorry: could you repeat the question?

The New York Times - Magazine

"Could you repeat the question?" he asked.

The New York Times

Then repeat the question and take a breath before answering.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Would you please repeat the question…?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal settings, preface "repeat the question" with a polite phrase like "Excuse me" or "I'm sorry, could you" to show respect.

Common error

Avoid using "repeat the question" excessively in informal settings, as it can come across as overly formal or condescending. Opt for more casual alternatives like "can you say that again?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "repeat the question" functions primarily as an imperative request. It is used to ask someone to reiterate or restate a question that has already been posed. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

31%

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "repeat the question" is a common and grammatically correct way to ask someone to reiterate a question. Ludwig confirms its validity and widespread use. It is most frequently used in academic and news/media contexts, serving the purpose of seeking clarification and ensuring accurate communication. While generally neutral in register, it is important to maintain a polite tone and consider the context when using this phrase. Alternative phrases, such as "can you say that again?" or "could you rephrase the question?", offer varying degrees of formality and can be chosen based on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can you say that again

Focuses on simply asking for a re-statement without necessarily implying difficulty in understanding.

could you rephrase the question

Suggests that rewording the question might help in understanding it better.

would you mind restating your question

A more polite way of asking for the question to be said again, suitable for formal situations.

could you clarify the question

Implies that the question was not entirely clear and asks for further explanation.

could you elaborate on the question

Asks for more details or a more comprehensive version of the question.

can you run that by me again

An informal way of asking someone to repeat the question.

what was the question again

Used when you have forgotten the question and need a reminder.

pardon, I didn't hear the question

Indicates that the question was not heard properly and needs to be repeated.

excuse me, could you go over the question

Politely requests a review of the question, often used when complex details are involved.

say the question once more

A direct and somewhat formal request to repeat the question.

FAQs

How do I politely ask someone to "repeat the question"?

You can use phrases like "Excuse me, could you "repeat the question"?" or "I'm sorry, would you mind "restating the question"?". Adding "please" also enhances politeness.

What's a less formal way to ask someone to "repeat the question"?

Informally, you might say "Can you "say that again"?" or "What was the question again?" These options are suitable for casual conversations.

When is it appropriate to ask someone to "repeat the question"?

It's appropriate to ask someone to "repeat the question" if you didn't hear it clearly, didn't understand it, or need a moment to process it before answering. It helps ensure accurate communication.

Are there situations where I should avoid asking someone to "repeat the question"?

Avoid repeatedly asking someone to "repeat the question" if you are clearly not paying attention or if you are using it as a stalling tactic. This can be seen as disrespectful or disengaged.