so the question is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "so the question is" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to introduce a direct question. For example: "The crucial issue at stake is whether to continue the project or not, so the question is: should we move forward with the project or abandon it altogether?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So the question is what happened.

The New York Times

So the question is this.

Yale University

So the question is why.

Harvard Business Review

So the question is obvious.

The New York Times

So, the question is, does it work?

Yale University

So the question is this, right?

Yale University

Ruha: So, the question is why?

Princeton University

So, the question is, what happens?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

So the question is, what's changed?

The Washington Post

So the question is, what's the trade?

Harvard Business Review

So the question is, what now?

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "so the question is", ensure the question is directly relevant to the preceding statements and logically follows from the information presented.

Common error

Avoid using "so the question is" merely as a transitional phrase without a clear and relevant question following it. This can make your writing seem unfocused and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "so the question is" serves as an introducer of inquiry, transitioning from background information or a problem statement to the central question that needs to be addressed. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this function across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

40%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "so the question is" functions as a pivotal transition, guiding readers or listeners from context to a central question. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent use across diverse fields such as news, academia, and science. When employing this phrase, ensure the ensuing question is both relevant and clearly articulated. Alternatives like "the key question is" or "the central issue is" can provide nuanced emphasis, while avoiding overuse prevents diluting its impact. Ludwig's examples showcase its versatility and importance in clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key question is

This emphasizes the importance of the question, indicating that it is essential to understanding the situation.

what we need to know is

This phrase directly indicates the information that is required to proceed or understand a situation.

the central issue is

This alternative focuses on the core problem, highlighting the most important aspect of the situation.

the problem at hand is

This alternative presents a specific problem that needs to be addressed or resolved.

therefore, the inquiry becomes

This alternative adds a slightly more formal tone, explicitly stating that an inquiry is about to be made.

ultimately, we're asking

This emphasizes the final or most important question being considered after a period of consideration.

thus, we must ask

This option suggests a necessary or unavoidable question, implying a sense of obligation or urgency.

hence, the query arises

This is a more formal and sophisticated way to introduce a question, implying a logical progression.

accordingly, the puzzle is

This introduces a problem or mystery that needs to be solved, framing the question as a challenge.

the main point is

This shifts the focus to the central argument or idea, rather than a specific question.

FAQs

How can I use "so the question is" in a sentence?

Use "so the question is" to introduce a key question after providing context. For example, "We've examined the data and considered all the options; "so the question is", which strategy will yield the best results?"

What are some alternatives to "so the question is"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the key question is", "the central issue is", or "what we need to know is", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "so, the question is" instead of "so the question is"?

While both forms are understandable, "so the question is" is more common and flows better in written English. Adding a comma after "so" can disrupt the flow and is generally unnecessary.

What's the best way to phrase a question after using "so the question is"?

Ensure the question is clear, concise, and directly related to the preceding context. Avoid ambiguity and use precise language to elicit the desired information or response.