the question remains whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the question remains whether' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used near the end of a sentence to introduce a statement or question about the uncertainty of something, for example, "The question remains whether we will have enough money to fund the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The question remains whether Mr. Pataki will go along.

The New York Times

The question remains whether we will feel force-fed.

The New York Times - Arts

The question remains whether the delay violated his speedy trial right.

Cornell University

Of course, the question remains whether this outcome is necessarily undesirable.

Columbia University

The question remains whether good deals with increasing valuations around fundraising reflect skill or luck.

Columbia University

However, the question remains whether pvcrt-o can affect chloroquine response independent of mutations.

Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology

The question remains whether what they accomplished was worth their suffering.

The New York Times - Books

Still, the question remains whether or not the finances can line up.

The Guardian - Sport

The question remains whether the V&A can truly compete for attendance with more mainstream institutions.

The New York Times - Arts

Four months later, the question remains whether school officials also acted recklessly that day.

The New York Times

The question remains whether this kind of targeting can actually influence people's behavior.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the question remains whether" to introduce a significant uncertainty or unresolved issue, especially after presenting relevant context or background information.

Common error

Avoid using "the question remains whether" for statements where the uncertainty is already obvious. It's best suited for situations where a more nuanced or complex issue is at stake.

Linguistic Context

The question remains whether functions as an introductory phrase to a clause expressing doubt or uncertainty. It typically sets up a question or issue that is yet to be resolved. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

27%

Science

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the question remains whether" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to introduce a point of uncertainty or unresolved issue. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common presence in diverse contexts like News & Media, Academia, and Science. When using the phrase, ensure it introduces a significant uncertainty and is not overused in simple declarations. Alternatives such as "it is still uncertain if" or "it is yet to be determined whether" may be used to vary expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is still uncertain if

Replaces the entire phrase with a more direct statement of uncertainty.

it is yet to be determined whether

Emphasizes the point that a decision or outcome has not yet been reached.

the uncertainty lies in whether

Focuses on the element of uncertainty surrounding a specific condition.

it's debatable whether

Highlights the aspect that something is open to discussion or argument.

one wonders if

Introduces a sense of contemplation or speculation.

the open question is whether

Highlights that an issue is explicitly unresolved.

the jury is still out on whether

Implies that a final verdict or conclusion is pending.

we have yet to see if

Suggests that the outcome will become apparent in the future.

it is not clear whether

States plainly that something is uncertain.

the doubt persists as to whether

Emphasizes that doubt is ongoing regarding a particular issue.

FAQs

How can I use "the question remains whether" in a sentence?

Use "the question remains whether" to introduce a point of uncertainty or unresolved issue after you've presented some context. For example, "Despite the promising results, the question remains whether the treatment will be effective in the long term."

What are some alternatives to "the question remains whether"?

Alternatives include "it is still uncertain if", "it is yet to be determined whether", or "it's debatable whether", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to use "the question remains whether"?

Yes, "the question remains whether" is grammatically correct and commonly used in formal writing and speech to introduce a statement about uncertainty.

What is the difference between "the question remains whether" and "it is uncertain if"?

"The question remains whether" often implies that some discussion or consideration has already taken place, whereas "it is uncertain if" is a more direct and neutral statement of uncertainty.