simmering question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simmering question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a question that is lingering or unresolved, often creating tension or anticipation for an answer. Example: "The simmering question of whether the project will succeed has been on everyone's mind since the initial proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The playful linguistic feud between the broadcasters John Humphrys and Melvyn Bragg peaked on Monday afternoon as the pair attempted to settle a simmering question: should the present tense be used to talk about the past?

The Guardian

In no small measure inspired by BBC America's Canadian-produced tricky and fun new series Orphan Black, which centers heavily on cloning what-ifs, I came back to this simmering question (thanks, TV!) -- why not cloning?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Dual victories by "The King's Speech" at a pair of closely watched awards ceremonies over the weekend have put the film on track to win a best picture Oscar, unless the vagaries of a new Hollywood math or simmering questions about the movie's chief subject, King George VI, get in the way.

The New York Times

Throughout the recent upheaval, Mr. Erdogan's behavior has given new fuel to already-simmering questions about his aims and methods — whether he has turned more autocrat than democrat, or at the least whether a deft politician has fallen into overconfidence.

The New York Times

Throughout the recent upheaval, Mr. Erdogan's behavior has given new fuel to already-simmering questions about his aims and methods — whether he has turned more autocrat then democrat, or at the least whether a deft politician has fallen into overconfidence.

The New York Times

First, there is the still-simmering question of the lack of racial diversity in the selection of Jim Lehrer, Bob Schieffer, Candy Crowley and Martha Raddatz.

Huffington Post

The long-simmering question of whether Barack Obama could fight the Clintons on their own terms without sacrificing the ideals of his choir boy politics was answered last night.

Huffington Post

If anything, the fight in Chicago turned a spotlight on questions simmering in a larger national struggle over changes in educational policy, including how teachers are evaluated, how much security years of service should give them and the role of charter schools.

The New York Times

Then it's just a question of simmering the sauce for about 10 minutes until velvety.

The New York Times

Late Thursday night, Terry Collins, simmering with anger, seemed to question the commitment of his players after the Mets were trounced by the Philadelphia Phillies, 16-1.

The New York Times

This question has been simmering for years.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simmering question" to describe a problem that is not being actively addressed but is causing underlying tension or concern. It's effective for setting a tone of unease or anticipation.

Common error

Avoid using "simmering question" to describe issues that are already at a boiling point of conflict. The phrase implies an issue that is underlying and not yet fully erupted, not one that is currently exploding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simmering question" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "simmering" modifies the noun "question". It describes a question that is unresolved and generating a low level of tension or unease. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simmering question" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe an unresolved issue that is causing underlying tension or unease. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts. While not overly frequent, it effectively conveys a sense of a problem that needs attention before it escalates. Alternatives include "lingering issue" or "unresolved problem", though these may lack the subtle sense of building tension. It's best used to describe situations where the issue is not yet in active conflict, but has the potential to escalate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burning question

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the question.

lingering issue

Focuses on the duration and unresolved nature, omitting the implicit tension.

pressing issue

Highlights the urgency and need for immediate attention.

unresolved problem

Shifts the focus to a problem rather than a question, losing the sense of inquiry.

outstanding matter

More formal and general, lacking the intensity of "simmering".

contentious point

Emphasizes the potential for disagreement and debate.

underlying concern

Highlights the element of worry or anxiety associated with the question.

brewing controversy

Emphasizes the potential for conflict or disagreement.

vexing dilemma

Highlights the perplexing and troublesome nature of the situation.

nagging doubt

Focuses on the persistent and irritating nature of the uncertainty.

FAQs

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

You can use "simmering question" to describe an unresolved issue that is causing tension or anxiety. For example, "The "simmering question" of the company's future leadership was finally addressed at the meeting."

What's a good alternative to "simmering question"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "unresolved problem", "lingering issue", or "underlying concern".

Is "simmering question" formal or informal?

"Simmering question" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is frequently found in news and media reporting which usually takes a "neutral" stance.

When is it appropriate to use "simmering question"?

It's appropriate when describing a situation where a question or issue remains unresolved and is causing a degree of unease or tension, without being in active discussion or resolution. If a question is more "pressing issue" a better fit may be the phrase "burning question".