the key question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the key question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when highlighting an important or central question that needs to be addressed or considered in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In this debate about climate change, the key question is how we can effectively reduce carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's the key question".

The New York Times

The key question is timing.

The Economist

That remains the key question.

The New Yorker

But the key question is: when?

The New Yorker

Here's the key question, I think.

The New York Times

The key question is, How?

The New York Times

The key question is why.

The Guardian - Sport

But this is the key question now.

The New York Times

The key question is what happens next?

The Guardian - Business

The key question now is over security.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The key question is now: Whatexplains this difference in aspirations?

IZA Journal of Migration

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "the key question", provide context so your audience understands the question's significance.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "the key question" without providing meaningful analysis or answers. Ensure each instance advances the discussion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key question" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a particularly important or central question. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's frequently used to introduce a pivotal point for consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key question" is a widely used phrase to introduce the most important inquiry in a discussion. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science sources, it effectively directs attention to the central issue at hand. While alternatives like "the central question" or "the crucial question" exist, "the key question" remains a straightforward and effective choice. When using this phrase, ensure it's followed by substantive analysis to maintain clarity and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the central question

Replaces "key" with "central", emphasizing the core or most important aspect of the inquiry.

the crucial question

Substitutes "key" with "crucial", highlighting the critical or decisive nature of the question.

the main question

Uses "main" instead of "key", focusing on the primary or principal question at hand.

the fundamental question

Replaces "key" with "fundamental", stressing the foundational or essential nature of the question.

the essential question

Substitutes "key" with "essential", emphasizing the indispensable or necessary nature of the question.

the critical issue

Shifts from "question" to "issue", framing the inquiry as a point of debate or concern.

the primary concern

Replaces "question" with "concern", highlighting the main source of worry or interest.

the central issue

Combines "central" with "issue", focusing on the most important point of debate or concern.

the underlying problem

Replaces "question" with "problem", framing the inquiry as a difficulty that needs to be addressed.

the real issue

Shifts the emphasis to the authenticity and relevance of the issue being discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "the key question" in a sentence?

Use "the key question" to introduce the most important issue or inquiry in a discussion. For example, "The key question is: how do we solve this problem?"

What can I say instead of "the key question"?

You can use alternatives like "the central question", "the crucial question", or "the main question" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a key question" instead of "the key question"?

Yes, "a key question" is also correct, but it implies that there are multiple important questions, while "the key question" suggests it is the single most important one.

What's the difference between "the key question" and "the relevant question"?

"The key question" emphasizes the most important question. "The relevant question" highlights the most pertinent question to the current discussion but not necessarily the most important.