returning to the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "returning to the question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to redirect the discussion back to a specific question that was previously raised. Example: "Returning to the question of climate change, we need to consider the long-term effects on our environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

But returning to the question of economic growth, Mr. Snow said that "clearly this issue was center stage for us".

The New York Times

Later, returning to the question, he used a metaphor: "Death is a terrible thing but a natural one.

The New Yorker

But he kept returning to the question of where Dora had gone when she left, and how she had spent her time.

The New Yorker

Returning to the question of what all the fuss was about, I will say that I am thrilled that the Montalcino producers will retain the sangiovese rules.

The New York Times - Food

As a social scientist I keep returning to the question: What is the best strategy for black communities to pursue their political interests as a whole?

The New York Times

"I think you asked me, why we're at this Wawa, instead of the other Wawa?" Mr. Romney said, returning to the question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Returning to the Questions app, it's tackling Q&A by reframing the format as a video conversation between askers and answerers.

TechCrunch

Returning to the questions presaged in the Introduction section: How does the growth strategy adopted by a single plant impact upon its performance in a monoculture?

AoB PLANTS

So we return to the question.

The New York Times

As the interview progressed, Mr. Obama never returned to the question.

The New York Times

We return to the question of whether she has mellowed.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "returning to the question" to smoothly guide your audience back to the central point after addressing related but tangential information. This helps maintain focus and coherence in your writing or speech.

Common error

Avoid using "returning to the question" too frequently within a short span. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and formulaic. Instead, vary your transitions with alternatives like "revisiting the question" or "getting back to the question".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "returning to the question" functions as a transitional phrase. It explicitly signals a shift back to a previously raised question or topic, ensuring clarity and coherence in discourse. Ludwig confirms this usage through various examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Academia

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "returning to the question" serves as a crucial tool for maintaining focus and clarity in both written and spoken communication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a transitional phrase that signals a shift back to a previously discussed topic. While grammatically correct and widely applicable, it should be used judiciously to avoid repetition. Alternatives like "revisiting the question" or "getting back to the question" can enhance stylistic variation. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse settings, from academic papers to news articles. Therefore, mastering its usage enhances effective communication by ensuring a clear and cohesive flow of ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

revisiting the question

Focuses on the act of looking at the question again.

getting back to the question

Emphasizes a return to the initial topic, often after a digression.

coming back to the question

Similar to getting back, but may imply a more cyclical approach.

to return to the query

More formal restatement of the original phrase, with a slight shift in tone.

readdressing the question

Implies a deliberate and formal return to the question for further consideration.

to revert to the issue

Shifts the focus slightly to the issue at hand rather than the question itself.

picking up the thread

More metaphorical, suggesting a continuation of a discussion.

resuming the inquiry

More formal, emphasizing the investigative nature of the question.

circling back to the initial point

Emphasizes the cyclical nature of the discussion, returning to the starting point.

returning to the subject at hand

Focuses on the general subject rather than a specific question.

FAQs

What does "returning to the question" mean?

The phrase "returning to the question" signals a redirection back to a specific question or topic that was previously introduced but may have been temporarily set aside during a discussion or presentation.

How can I use "returning to the question" in a sentence?

You can use it to smoothly transition back to the main point, like this: "We've discussed various factors, but "returning to the question" of funding, how do we secure the necessary resources?"

What are some alternatives to "returning to the question"?

You can use alternatives like "revisiting the question", "getting back to the question", or "to revert to the issue" to vary your language.

When is it appropriate to use "returning to the question"?

It's appropriate when you want to refocus the conversation or writing on the original topic after exploring related tangents or providing additional context.