that is the question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that is the question" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to express uncertainty or to highlight a dilemma, particularly in philosophical or rhetorical contexts. Example: "To be or not to be, that is the question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Lateral or vertical — that is the question!

Cornell University

For black fans, that is the question.

The Washington Post

DAVID DENBY: God, that is the question.

The New Yorker

A pattern -- that is the question.

The New York Times - Books

To tan or not to tan that is the question.

Harvard University

To gag or to weep, that is the question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

After the Convention, that was the question.

The Washington Post

That was the question.

The New Yorker

That's the question.

The New York Times - Arts

"Ah, that's the question.

The New Yorker

That's the question confronting Republicans.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “that is the question” to introduce a critical dilemma or uncertainty, prompting deeper consideration of the issue at hand.

Common error

Avoid using “that is the question” too frequently, as it can sound repetitive. Vary your language by employing alternatives like “the central issue is” or “the real question is” for a more nuanced tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that is the question" functions as a declarative statement used to introduce a critical point of consideration or uncertainty. As evidenced by Ludwig, it commonly serves to highlight a dilemma requiring careful thought.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that is the question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to introduce a significant dilemma or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, serving to prompt reflection and emphasize the importance of a decision. While versatile, it should be used judiciously, with alternatives like "the central issue is" available for variety. Its usage spans both formal and informal registers, maintaining a neutral tone overall.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key question to consider is

Specifies that reflection and thought are needed to address the query.

the central question is

Highlights the core problem needing resolution, using a more direct approach.

the real issue is

Directly points to the most important problem at hand, simplifying the sentence.

the crucial point is

Identifies the most important element to consider.

that remains the key issue

Focuses on the unresolved nature of the problem, emphasizing its continued importance.

the main concern is

Focuses on what is most worrisome or significant.

the fundamental problem is

Emphasizes the underlying and essential nature of the issue.

the heart of the matter is

Highlights the most important aspect of the issue.

what needs to be determined is

Shifts the focus to the act of finding a conclusive answer or resolution.

what it all boils down to is

Indicates the most basic or essential aspect of a situation.

FAQs

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

Use "that is the question" to highlight a central dilemma or uncertainty. For example, "Whether to invest in new equipment or hire more staff, "that is the question"".

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

You can use alternatives like "the central issue is", "the real question is", or "the key question to consider is" depending on the specific context.

Is "that is the question" formal or informal?

The phrase "that is the question" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the tone and subject matter of the discussion. It is generally perceived as more thoughtful or rhetorical.

When is it appropriate to use "that is the question"?

It's appropriate to use “that is the question” when you want to emphasize a significant decision or problem that requires careful consideration. You can use alternatives like "what it comes down to" or "the crucial point is".