serious question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious question" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that the question being asked is important or significant. Example: "I have a serious question for you. Do you think we should pursue a more sustainable approach in our business practices?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a serious question.

Independent

That's a very serious question.

Independent

Is that a serious question?

The Guardian - Sport

8.54pm: A serious question.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Cameron's judgment is in serious question.

The New York Times

"Is that a serious question?" he said.

The New York Times - Magazine

It was a serious question.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Is that a serious question?" he replied.

The Guardian

A more serious question involves officiating.

The New York Times - Sports

I have a very serious question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's a serious question.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing a "serious question", ensure the context clearly establishes the significance of the inquiry. This helps the audience understand the importance of the question and its potential implications.

Common error

Avoid using "serious question" in casual conversations where the subject matter is trivial. Overusing it can diminish its impact when a genuinely important question needs to be raised.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious question" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a specific type of inquiry. It serves to signal the gravity and importance of the question being posed. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "serious question" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to denote an inquiry of significant importance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely employed across various contexts, predominantly in news and media but also in formal and business settings. The phrase effectively signals the gravity of the question, prompting careful thought and consideration. Alternatives like "important question" or "critical question" can be used to add nuanced emphasis. While generally appropriate for neutral to professional contexts, overuse in informal settings should be avoided. The phrase serves as a clear indicator that the inquiry at hand merits serious attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

important question

Replaces "serious" with "important", emphasizing significance.

significant question

Uses "significant" instead of "serious", highlighting consequence.

critical question

Substitutes "serious" with "critical", stressing urgency.

weighty question

Employs "weighty" to convey the depth of the question.

grave question

Replaces "serious" with "grave", indicating severe implications.

profound question

Uses "profound" instead of "serious", highlighting deep insight.

pressing question

Substitutes "serious" with "pressing", indicating urgency and demand for attention.

vital question

Employs "vital" to stress that the question is essential.

key question

Highlights the question as being fundamental or central.

substantial question

Replaces "serious" with "substantial" indicating something of considerable importance.

FAQs

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

You can use "serious question" to introduce an inquiry that requires careful consideration. For example, "I have a serious question about our company's financial stability." or "Before we proceed further, I need to ask a serious question".

What are some alternatives to "serious question"?

You can use alternatives like "important question", "critical question", or "significant question" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "serious question"?

It's appropriate to use "serious question" when the topic is of considerable importance, potentially impacting decisions or outcomes. It signals to the listener or reader that the inquiry should be given careful thought.

What's the difference between "serious question" and "difficult question"?

A "serious question" highlights the importance or potential consequences of the inquiry, while a "difficult question" refers to the complexity or challenge in finding an answer, focusing on the nature of the challenge.