the ultimate question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the ultimate question' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the most important question in a certain situation or conversation. For example: "What is the ultimate question we should be asking ourselves?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But the ultimate question remained.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet our proposals sidestepped the ultimate question.

The New Yorker

But the ultimate question, of relevance to humans, remains unanswered.

The New York Times - Health

The ultimate question is whether adaptation alone is enough.

The New York Times - Sports

"But the ultimate question is, does this change outcomes for patients?

The New York Times

The ultimate question is whether Mr. Romney is a credible voice for change.

The New York Times

Whether it will produce good art remains the ultimate question though.

The Guardian - Arts

And the film's plot is a microcosm of the ultimate question about waging war.

The New York Times

Whether Concord will make students think and act like lawyers is the ultimate question.

The New York Times

The ultimate question is not about an arms race in SPF.

The New York Times

That's the ultimate question and that's going to answered this century.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the ultimate question" to highlight the most critical issue at hand in a discussion, analysis, or decision-making process.

Common error

Avoid using "the ultimate question" in situations where the question is not truly the most significant or impactful one. Reserve it for scenarios where the stakes are high or the implications are profound.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the ultimate question" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the single most important question within a context. As Ludwig suggests, it's used to pinpoint the core issue. Examples show its application in diverse fields, from science to media.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the ultimate question" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to highlight the most important question in a given context. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous real-world examples. The phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news, scientific, and formal business publications. While suitable for formal writing, it's important to reserve it for scenarios where the inquiry truly carries significant weight. Remember to use alternatives when appropriate to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the key question

Focuses on the essential aspect needing resolution.

the central question

Highlights the core issue at the heart of the matter.

the main question

Emphasizes the primary inquiry to be addressed.

the crucial question

Underscores the critical importance of the inquiry.

the fundamental question

Stresses the foundational nature of the inquiry.

the essential question

Highlights the indispensable nature of the inquiry.

the critical question

Implies the question holds significant consequences.

the most important question

Directly states the question's high level of importance.

the overarching question

Focuses on a broad question encompassing several smaller issues.

the bottom line question

Emphasizes the definitive consideration for decision-making.

FAQs

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

You can use "the ultimate question" to introduce the most important or decisive inquiry in a given context. For example, "The company's future hinges on answering "the ultimate question": can we innovate quickly enough to stay ahead of the competition?"

What are some alternatives to "the ultimate question"?

Alternatives include "the key question", "the central question", or "the most important question", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "the ultimate question" imply?

"The ultimate question" implies that the inquiry is of paramount importance, and its answer will have significant consequences. It suggests that other considerations are secondary to this central issue.

Is it appropriate to use "the ultimate question" in formal writing?

Yes, "the ultimate question" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing critical issues or pivotal decisions. Its use can effectively underscore the significance of the point being addressed.