straightforward question

USAGE SUMMARY

"straightforward question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to ask a direct and uncomplicated question. For example: "Is there any reason why I can't take the weekend off?" is a straightforward question.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a straightforward question.

The New York Times

It sounds a straightforward question, doesn't it?

The Guardian - Business

This is a pretty simple, straightforward question.

The New York Times

Later, Dennis Skinner asked Cameron a pleasingly straightforward question.

Independent

Estela Bravo's new documentary, "Fidel," poses an apparently straightforward question.

The New York Times

The answers to this straightforward question are complicated!

The New Yorker

Caro is relieved that this maddeningly straightforward question appears to have been answered at last.

The New Yorker

To watch: Herman Cain "pulls a Perry" after stumbling mightily over a straightforward question about Libya.

The New Yorker

If you ask it a straightforward question you get a straightforward answer.

Independent

"Please give me the answer to a very straightforward question," Mr Corbyn asked the PM.

Independent

SENATOR McCAIN -- But Mr. Secretary, that's a very simple, straightforward question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, avoid using "straightforward question" when the inquiry involves complex or nuanced issues.

Common error

Avoid labeling inquiries as "straightforward question" when they involve complex or multifaceted issues; doing so can oversimplify the matter and misrepresent the depth of the analysis required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "straightforward question" functions primarily as a noun phrase where the adjective "straightforward" modifies the noun "question". It describes the nature of the question being posed, indicating its simplicity and lack of ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "straightforward question" is a commonly used phrase to describe a question that is direct and uncomplicated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's frequently found in news articles, scientific papers, and formal discussions, denoting a question designed for clarity and ease of understanding. When writing, it's best to use this phrase when the inquiry is genuinely simple and direct, avoiding its application to complex or nuanced issues. Alternatives like "simple question" or "direct question" can be used for variety. This makes "straightforward question" a versatile and valuable phrase in many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple question

Replaces "straightforward" with "simple", emphasizing the lack of complexity.

direct question

Focuses on the directness and lack of ambiguity in the question.

clear question

Highlights the clarity and ease of understanding of the question.

uncomplicated question

Emphasizes the lack of complex elements or hidden meanings.

plain question

Indicates a question that is simple and without embellishment.

basic question

Suggests the question is fundamental or introductory in nature.

easy question

Focuses on the ease with which the question can be answered or understood.

candid question

Highlights the honesty and frankness of the question.

explicit question

Emphasizes that the question is expressed directly and without vagueness.

obvious question

Suggests the question is readily apparent and requires little thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "straightforward question" to describe a query that is direct and uncomplicated. For instance, "The interviewer asked a "straightforward question" about my work experience".

What are some alternatives to "straightforward question"?

You can use alternatives like "simple question", "direct question", or "clear question" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "straightforward question" in academic writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, particularly when introducing a question that you intend to address directly and without unnecessary complexity. However, ensure that the question truly warrants the label of "straightforward".

What's the difference between a "straightforward question" and a "loaded question"?

A ""straightforward question"" is direct and unbiased, seeking a clear answer. A loaded question, on the other hand, contains an assumption or is phrased in a way that restricts the respondent's answer.