start the question of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start the question of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a topic or issue that requires inquiry or discussion. Example: "We need to start the question of how to improve our team's communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

He went on, "My best summary of the difference in world view between tech and politics is that, in tech, you start with the question of why not, and in D.C. you start with the question of why.

The New Yorker

Let's start with the question of timing.

The New York Times

"I want to start with the question of tourism".

The Guardian

I did start mulling the question of who really was the victim here.

The New York Times

Start with the question of just how much of a slowdown is happening.

Independent

Let's start with the question of whether Mr. Obama has, in fact, apologized.

The New York Times

The Serbs themselves have to start raising the question of what really happened.

The New York Times

Let's start with the question of who creates the jobs.

TechCrunch

In terms of advice, we have to start with the question of Langston Hughes: "What happens to a dream deferred?

Huffington Post

We start with the question of Korean physicians' understanding of medical professionalism.

BMC Medical Ethics

The moral ledger remains so far in the negative that we can't even get started on the question of reparations.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone you want to set. While "start the question of" is generally neutral, alternatives like "raise the issue of" or "initiate an inquiry into" can subtly alter the formality and perceived seriousness of the topic.

Common error

Avoid phrasing that obscures who is initiating the question. Instead of saying "The question of X should be started", specify who is starting the question: "We should start the question of X".

Linguistic Context

"Start the question of" primarily functions as an introductory phrase, signaling the beginning of an inquiry or discussion. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase introduces a topic needing exploration, prompting further examination or analysis.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Encyclopedias

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Wiki

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "start the question of" serves as a useful phrase to introduce a topic that warrants further discussion or investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct. Despite having a neutral tone it can be used across various contexts, it's important to consider the specific setting and audience to ensure appropriateness. Alternatives such as "raise the issue of" or "begin to address the problem of" may be more suitable in certain situations. While versatile, careful consideration should be given to sentence structure to maintain clarity. Due to the absence of examples, it's important to be mindful when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bring up the subject of

A more direct and simple way of introducing a topic for discussion.

raise the issue of

Simplifies the phrase by using "raise" instead of "start the question", focusing on bringing the issue to attention.

introduce the problem of

Focuses on presenting a difficulty or challenge for consideration.

begin to address the issue of

Replaces "start" with "begin to address" and "question" with "issue", emphasizing the commencement of engagement with a problem.

initiate an inquiry into the matter of

Uses more formal vocabulary such as "initiate an inquiry" and "matter", suggesting a more structured or official investigation.

commence discussion regarding

Emphasizes the start of a conversation or debate about a particular topic.

open up the debate on

Suggests initiating a formal or widespread discussion on a subject.

launch an investigation into

Implies a formal, in-depth examination of a specific problem or matter.

set in motion the process of questioning

Highlights the beginning of a series of inquiries or examinations.

kick off the inquiry about

Uses a more informal tone, suggesting a casual start to an investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "start the question of" in a sentence?

You can use "start the question of" to introduce a topic needing discussion or investigation. For example: "We need to start the question of funding for the new project."

What phrases are similar to "start the question of"?

Alternatives include "raise the issue of", "begin to address the issue of", or "initiate an inquiry into the matter of".

Is "start the question of" formal or informal?

"Start the question of" is generally neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in highly professional settings.

What's the difference between "start the question of" and "raise the question of"?

While similar, "raise the question of" is often used when simply bringing an issue to attention, whereas "start the question of" suggests initiating a more in-depth exploration or inquiry.