the key question is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the key question is" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an important or central question that needs to be addressed in a discussion or analysis. Example: "In considering the implications of climate change, the key question is how we can effectively reduce carbon emissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The key question is: Is it going to last?

The New York Times

The key question is timing.

The Economist

But the key question is: when?

The New Yorker

The key question is, How?

The New York Times

The key question is why.

The Guardian - Sport

The key question is what happens next?

The Guardian - Business

The key question is what change?

The Guardian - Music

"The key question is still MobilCom," Mr. Salle said.

The New York Times

The key question is why a business exists.

The Guardian

"The key question is why those twins are so different".

The New York Times - Science

10.10am: The key question is: what's the weather like?

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the key question is" to introduce a pivotal question that guides the reader's focus towards the most important aspect of your argument or analysis.

Common error

Avoid starting too many consecutive sentences or paragraphs with "the key question is". Vary your sentence structure by using alternatives like "a central issue is" or rephrasing the question as a statement to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the key question is" functions as an introductory phrase that highlights a central inquiry. It sets the stage for exploring the most crucial aspect of a topic. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a standard and acceptable usage, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the key question is" serves as a robust and commonly used phrase to introduce pivotal inquiries. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts—particularly in News & Media—makes it a valuable tool for writers. While alternatives exist, such as "the central issue is", this phrase effectively focuses readers on the most critical aspect of a discussion. Remember to use this phrase judiciously to avoid redundancy and maintain engagement. Understanding when and how to deploy "the key question is" will enhance your writing's clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The central issue is

Focuses on the main problem or point of discussion, shifting from a question to a statement of concern.

The main concern is

Emphasizes the primary worry or source of anxiety related to a situation.

The crucial point is

Highlights the essential element or aspect that needs to be considered.

What matters most is

Shifts the focus to the most significant factor or consideration in a given situation.

The fundamental question is

Underscores the basic or foundational inquiry that needs to be addressed.

The real question is

Suggests that the obvious or stated question is not the most important one.

The essential thing to consider is

Emphasizes the necessity of thinking about a specific aspect.

More importantly

Signals a shift in focus to a more significant or relevant point.

At the heart of the matter is

Indicates the core or central element of a complex situation.

Ultimately

Introduces the final and most important consideration or outcome.

FAQs

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

Use "the key question is" to introduce a central inquiry or problem within a discussion. For example, "When addressing climate change, "the key question is": how can we reduce carbon emissions effectively?"

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

You can use alternatives like "the main concern is", "the crucial point is", or "the central issue is" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to use "the key question is" multiple times in one paragraph?

Yes, using ""the key question is"" excessively can make your writing repetitive. Try to rephrase some instances using alternatives or integrating the question directly into your statements.

What's the difference between "the key question is" and "an important question is"?

"The key question is" implies that the question is central and crucial to the discussion, while "an important question is" simply suggests that the question is relevant but not necessarily the most important one.