stick to the questions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stick to the questions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want someone to focus on the specific questions being asked without deviating from the topic. Example: "During the interview, please stick to the questions I have prepared to ensure we cover all necessary topics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

We found it hard at times to stick to the questions because each topic lends itself to so many other conversations about society, culture, the environment, art, music and more.

Huffington Post

You should stick to the questions until they are answered.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Henry's brother "and various other long-headed youths have combined to form a metaphysical club, where they wrangle grimly and stick to the question," he wrote in a letter.

The New York Times - Books

He delivered his testimony in narrative fashion, leading to several cautions by Justice Michael Obus Michael Obus that he should stick to the question.

Forbes

Stick to the question; additional info like "nice pics in results!" or "the ultimate quiz!!!" or any other words meant to attract the reader's attention, are simply pointless and annoying.

WikiHow

Probably, the listening teachers stuck to the questions in the textbook.

Language Testing in Asia

Just trying to stick to the scripted questions was difficult because this down to earth reality star crossed over the press line and got real with questions everyone wanted to know.

Huffington Post

Stick to the safe questions to start with, anything work-related or benign, such as their advice on where to eat at lunchtime.

The Guardian

Interviews, he argued, could be more reliably performed by economically affordable, naïve raters who would stick to the pre-formed questions than by clinicians who were both expensive and unreliable.

European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience

I could make a half-arsed analogy that watching cricket is some kind of mantra but I think I'll merely stick to the old favourite question: Why do we do it to ourselves?

The Guardian - Sport

(Incidentally, the easiest way to test whether or not a pan is suitable for an induction hob is to see if that magnetic cow (or chicken or whatever) stuck on the front of your fridge will stick to the pan in question.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When conducting interviews, "stick to the questions" to gather consistent data and avoid introducing bias.

Common error

Avoid tangents or unrelated information when answering questions. Focus solely on providing clear, concise answers that directly address the questions being asked.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stick to the questions" functions as a directive, urging adherence to a specific line of inquiry or a predetermined set of topics. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

27%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "stick to the questions" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that directs focus and relevance in communication. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across diverse contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, and wiki sources, its purpose is to ensure clear and direct responses, avoiding unnecessary deviations. When using the phrase, remember to prioritize clarity and accuracy to maintain the focus of the discussion. Consider alternatives like "stay on topic" for similar effect. Preventing rambling is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remain focused on the inquiry

Emphasizes maintaining focus and direction during a line of questioning.

keep to the agenda

Highlights the importance of adhering to a predetermined set of topics.

address only the inquiries

Stresses the need to respond directly and exclusively to the questions posed.

answer the questions directly

Focuses on providing straightforward and relevant responses without deviation.

confine responses to the questions

Implies limiting answers to the scope and content of the questions.

stay on topic

Highlights the importance of maintaining relevance during a conversation or discussion.

maintain relevance to the query

Focuses on ensuring that all information provided is pertinent to the subject matter.

focus on the subject

Highlights the act of directing attention and effort towards a particular subject.

limit answers to the scope

Suggests restricting responses within a defined boundary or extent.

concentrate on the inquiries

Emphasizes concentrating efforts on the specific questions at hand.

FAQs

How can I use "stick to the questions" in a sentence?

You can use "stick to the questions" when you want someone to focus on the specific questions being asked without deviating from the topic. For example, "During the interview, please stick to the questions I have prepared to ensure we cover all necessary topics."

What can I say instead of "stick to the questions"?

You can use alternatives like "stay on topic", "focus on the questions", or "address only the inquiries" depending on the context.

Is it better to "stick to the questions" or answer broadly?

Whether to "stick to the questions" or answer broadly depends on the situation. In formal settings like interviews or debates, "sticking to the questions" ensures clarity and relevance. In casual conversations, a broader approach might be more appropriate.

When should I ask someone to "stick to the questions"?

You should ask someone to "stick to the questions" when their responses are wandering off-topic or not directly addressing the issues raised. This ensures efficient and relevant communication.