subsidiary questions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subsidiary questions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to secondary or supporting questions that arise from a main question or topic. Example: "In our discussion, we will first address the primary issue, followed by any subsidiary questions that may help clarify our understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

But it will also work on a host of subsidiary questions.

The Economist

The ballot paper had no subsidiary questions on post-EU arrangements.

The Guardian - Opinion

The subsidiary questions are: Who should be the keeper of the flame, especially with a living designer?

The New York Times

The contributors and editors also discuss subsidiary questions including: What are the real goals of policies supporting homeownership?

Cornell University

The question "What's the best formation?" is nonsensical because it depends on so many subsidiary questions: who are my players?

The Guardian - Sport

In the course of a trial, however, a court is required to enter decisions that settle only subsidiary questions or some but not all of the ultimate issues.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

A subsidiary question remains for determination.

Cornell University

Let's first start with the subsidiary question of whether they managed to persuade their own parties.

The Guardian - Opinion

So that the subsidiary question is, not only what have we taught people to value and reward, but what have we taught people to aim at?

The Guardian - Opinion

A subsidiary question has to do with what this entails in terms of realignment both with elements within the opposition and the forces supporting the regime.

The Guardian - Opinion

In some instances the answer to this second question may be easy because of clear historical evidence that the very subsidiary question was so regarded under the English practice of leaving the issue for a jury.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subsidiary questions" to encourage critical thinking by prompting deeper exploration of a topic.

Common error

Ensure that "subsidiary questions" directly support the main topic. Avoid introducing questions that, while interesting, do not contribute to a better understanding of the primary subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subsidiary questions" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object or subject of a sentence or clause. It refers to additional inquiries that stem from a primary question. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable and correct in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

25%

Science

31%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "subsidiary questions" is a grammatically correct and commonly used noun phrase that refers to related or supporting inquiries branching from a main question. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and suitable for use in formal writing. It's prevalent in news, academic, and scientific contexts and serves to clarify and explore complex topics. The phrase benefits from breaking down larger subjects into smaller, more digestible components, as well as aiding the audience comprehension. Related alternatives include phrases like "secondary inquiries" and "supporting questions". Common errors involve misusing "subsidiary questions" as irrelevant tangents. To improve your writing, ensure that the "subsidiary questions" align with and support your primary subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

secondary inquiries

Highlights the lower level of importance or priority of the questions.

supporting questions

Emphasizes the role of the questions in providing evidence or clarification for a main topic.

ancillary questions

Implies that these questions are supplemental and provide extra details.

related inquiries

Focuses on the connected nature of the questions, emphasizing their relationship to a central theme.

follow-up questions

Suggests that these questions arise as a direct result of initial queries.

associated questions

Highlights the link or connection that the questions share with the central problem.

additional questions

Simply indicates that these are extra questions related to the main subject.

dependent questions

Indicates that the questions rely on other information or answers.

minor questions

Highlights the relative unimportance of the questions compared to a main concern.

peripheral questions

Focuses on the questions being on the outer edge or less central to the main topic.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "subsidiary questions" in an essay?

Use "subsidiary questions" to explore different facets of your main argument. Introduce them to guide your research and structure your essay, ensuring each question contributes to your overall thesis.

What's a good way to introduce "subsidiary questions" in a presentation?

Begin by stating the main problem or question, then introduce the "subsidiary questions" as steps toward finding a solution. This approach keeps your audience engaged and shows the logical progression of your argument.

Are "secondary questions" and "subsidiary questions" interchangeable?

Yes, in most contexts, "secondary questions" and "subsidiary questions" can be used interchangeably. Both refer to questions that are less important than the primary question but still relevant to the topic.

How do "subsidiary questions" help in problem-solving?

"Subsidiary questions" break down a complex problem into smaller, more manageable inquiries. By addressing each of these questions, you can systematically approach the problem and develop a comprehensive solution.