that is a question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is a question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to clarify or emphasize that something being discussed is indeed a question. Example: "When you asked if I would join the meeting, that is a question that requires a response."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Yes, that is a question which Protarchus and I have been long asking.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

In this case, that is a question of state evidentiary law.

Cornell University

That is a question".

The New York Times - Arts

"That is a question mark.

Independent

That is a question for another night.

The New York Times

That is a question for the S.E.C.

The New York Times

And that is a question of price.

The Economist

That is a question worth posing.

The Economist

And that is a question of will.

The Washington Post

That is a question on everyone's lips.

The New York Times

But that is a question that simply cannot be answered.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using variations like "the question is whether" or "a key question is" to add nuance and avoid repetition. However, ensure the alternative maintains the intended emphasis on the questioning aspect.

Common error

Avoid using "that is a question" when you aren't actually posing a question but making a rhetorical statement. Ensure that what follows truly requires an answer or exploration, rather than just serving as emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is a question" functions as a discourse marker, signaling the introduction or highlighting of a question within a conversation or text. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which shows numerous examples across diverse sources. The examples serve to draw attention to the question.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that is a question" serves as a common and versatile tool for introducing and emphasizing questions across various contexts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Academia, signaling the importance of considering the posed question. While grammatically straightforward, writers should ensure it is used appropriately and can replace it with several alternatives depending on the context to improve writing quality. Overall, the phrase effectively directs attention to unresolved matters and prompts further analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that remains an open question

Emphasizes the unresolved nature of the question.

the question is whether

Directly frames the question as a binary choice.

the central question is

Highlights the importance of the question.

an important question is

Indicates the significance of the question being posed.

a key question is

Stresses the crucial role of the question in a discussion.

the underlying question is

Focuses on the fundamental nature of the question.

the issue at hand is

Shifts focus slightly to the broader issue the question addresses.

the problem is

Frames the question as a problem needing a solution.

one might ask

Introduces the question in a more tentative or speculative way.

it begs the question

Highlights a question that arises logically from a previous statement.

FAQs

How can I use "that is a question" in a sentence?

Use "that is a question" to introduce a problem, inquire something, or to express doubt. Example: "The true value of this approach, "that is a question" for another day."

What are some alternatives to "that is a question"?

You can use alternatives like "that remains an open question", "the question is whether", or "the central question is" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "that is a question" in writing?

It's best to use "that is a question" when you want to emphasize that a specific point or issue requires further examination or analysis. It can be useful in academic writing, news reporting, or any context where clarifying the focus of inquiry is beneficial.

Is "that is a question" formal or informal?

"That is a question" is generally considered neutral in tone and appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. However, the surrounding language and overall style of your writing will influence the perception of formality.