smart question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smart question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a question that demonstrates intelligence, insight, or critical thinking. Example: "That was a smart question; it really got us thinking about the underlying issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

JEFFREY TOOBIN: Smart question.

The New Yorker

DEXTER FILKINS: Jifry, this a really smart question — would the opposition be as accommodating to the U.S. as Saleh?

The New Yorker

A few months ago, Steven Pinker of Harvard asked a smart question: What scientific concept would improve everybody's cognitive toolkit?

The New York Times

You sort of realize she is processing it later, when she comes up with a smart question".

The New York Times - Sports

It's actually a smart question, because Maker Studios is now owned by Disney, as is Star Wars.

The Guardian - Tech

It's a smart question for Mitt Romney's campaign to be asking, and one that President Obama needs to develop a better answer to.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Are they asking smart questions?

The New York Times

But these were not smart questions.

The New Yorker

I always like people who ask smart questions.

The New York Times

Ask more smart questions, not 'eating after the show'.

The Guardian - Opinion

Ask more smart questions, not with eating after the show.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "smart question" when you want to compliment the questioner on their insight or intelligence. It implies the question is well-considered and relevant.

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid using "smart question" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for alternatives like "insightful inquiry" or "thoughtful question" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smart question" functions as an adjective-noun phrase. The adjective "smart" modifies the noun "question", indicating a quality of intelligence or insight. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "smart question" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that functions as an adjective-noun construction to praise the intelligence or insight behind a question. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely applicable across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While predominantly neutral in register, leaning towards informal, writers should opt for more formal synonyms like "insightful inquiry" in academic or professional settings. Remember that it is an indicator of acknowledgement and appreciation and to use it to compliment the quality of the question, demonstrating that the question is well-thought and insightful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wise question

Emphasizes the sagacity and informed nature of the question.

astute question

Highlights the keenness and shrewdness of the question.

clever question

Focuses on the ingenuity and inventiveness of the question.

insightful question

Stresses the depth and penetrating nature of the question.

intelligent question

Directly points out the high level of intellectual capacity behind the question.

shrewd question

Indicates a question posed with practicality and resourcefulness.

perceptive question

Highlights the ability to notice subtle aspects.

thoughtful question

Emphasizes careful consideration behind the question.

probing question

Describes a question designed to explore in detail.

relevant question

Highlights that the question appropriately relates to a subject.

FAQs

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

You can use "smart question" to acknowledge a question that demonstrates intelligence or insight. For example, "That's a smart question; it highlights a key issue."

What can I say instead of "smart question"?

You can use alternatives like "wise question", "astute question", or "insightful question" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "smart question" in formal writing?

While "smart question" is acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "insightful inquiry" or "thoughtful question" in academic or professional contexts.

When is it best to use "smart question" over other similar phrases?

"Smart question" is best used when you want to directly acknowledge the intelligence or cleverness behind a question. It's more informal than some alternatives and conveys a sense of appreciation for the questioner's thinking.