the underlying question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the underlying question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the fundamental issue or concern that needs to be addressed in a conversation or analysis. Example: "In this debate, the underlying question is whether we should prioritize economic growth over environmental sustainability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

John Tierney did not answer the underlying question.

The New York Times

The underlying question is, Are people are born with an innate ability to use language?

The New York Times - Health

Why young people flee the suburbs was the underlying question of the day.

The New York Times

The underlying question of the film is: How in the world was Devereaux exonerated?

The New Yorker

The underlying question in all of this is, of course: why?

The Guardian - Arts

This is the underlying question: is the source of morality individual or social?

The Guardian

The underlying question — should American women receive help in protecting themselves from unwanted pregnancies?

The New York Times - Magazine

The underlying question is: whose interest is the company doctor looking after, the patient's or his employer's?

The Guardian - Money

The underlying question is how the justices will evaluate the competing interests of preventing fraud and protecting access.

The New York Times

That was the underlying question under discussion at a seminar hosted by the Guardian and sponsored by the ABPI.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

So the underlying question persists.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the underlying question", ensure the context clearly indicates why this question is not immediately obvious and requires deeper consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "the underlying question" when a simpler term like "the main question" would suffice. This phrase is most effective when the question genuinely requires some digging to uncover.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the underlying question" functions as a noun phrase that introduces the core issue or concern in a given context. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is often used to highlight a question that isn't immediately obvious but is crucial to understanding a situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the underlying question" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a fundamental, often non-obvious, inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its frequent use across various domains, particularly in News & Media and Science. While alternatives like "the central question" or "the fundamental question" exist, this phrase is most effective when pointing to a deeper, less apparent issue. To use it effectively, focus on clarity and ensure the context justifies its use over simpler alternatives, thereby enhancing the depth and focus of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the central question

Focuses more on the centrality of the question rather than its concealed nature.

the fundamental question

Highlights the basic and essential nature of the question.

the key question

Emphasizes the importance and significance of the question.

the core question

Indicates the most important or essential part of the question.

the essential question

Stresses the indispensable nature of the question to the topic.

the basic question

Suggests a question that forms the foundation for further inquiry.

the main question

Refers to the primary or principal question under consideration.

the critical question

Implies the question is crucial and decisive.

the real question

Indicates the question that truly matters, often hidden or ignored.

the deeper question

Highlights a question that requires more profound thought and analysis.

FAQs

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

You can use "the underlying question" to introduce the most fundamental issue at stake in a complex discussion or analysis, for example: "The underlying question is whether we can balance economic growth with environmental protection."

What are some alternatives to "the underlying question"?

You can use alternatives like "the central question", "the fundamental question", or "the key question" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "the underlying question" and "the main question"?

"The underlying question" refers to a deeper, less obvious issue, while "the main question" is the primary and most apparent issue.

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

It is appropriate to use "the underlying question" when discussing a fundamental issue that is not immediately apparent and requires deeper analysis or consideration.