the whole question

USAGE SUMMARY

"the whole question" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to refer to a situation or inquiry as a whole. For example: "Before I can provide a definitive answer, I need to consider the whole question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"The whole question is consent," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

But this begs the whole question.

Cornell University

So the whole question of technology.

Yale University

That takes care of the whole question.

Cornell University

It says the whole question is misconceived.

Yale University

"The whole question is strange," he says.

The Guardian - Books

The whole question of defensive measures became moot.

Harvard University

So the whole question of building materials becomes very important.

Yale University

Some people would prefer to brush the whole question aside.

The Guardian - Books

For a start, there's the whole question of order.

The Guardian - Film

The whole question of sexuality was repressed and denied".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the whole question" to introduce a comprehensive discussion or analysis of a topic. It signals that you're about to consider all aspects of the issue, not just a single facet.

Common error

Avoid using "the whole question" when you're only addressing a specific part of a larger issue. This phrase implies a complete overview, so ensure your discussion matches that scope.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the whole question" functions as a noun phrase that introduces a comprehensive consideration of a topic or situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a commonly used and grammatically sound way to signal a broad inquiry. The examples show it setting the stage for detailed discussions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Academia

38%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the whole question" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that signals a comprehensive consideration of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression appears often in news and academic contexts. Its usage indicates an intention to address all aspects of an issue. When using this phrase, ensure that your discussion matches the implied scope. Alternatives like "the entire issue" or "the complete problem" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the entire issue

Focuses on the totality of the matter under consideration.

the complete problem

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the problem.

the overall matter

Highlights the general scope of the situation.

the central point

Indicates the most important aspect of the question.

the key concern

Draws attention to the main source of worry or interest.

the main subject

Refers to the primary topic being discussed or analyzed.

the core issue

Identifies the fundamental problem at the heart of the matter.

the fundamental query

Highlights the basic and essential nature of the question.

the overarching theme

Emphasizes a dominant and encompassing idea.

the encompassing scope

Refers to the complete range or extent of the topic.

FAQs

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

You can use "the whole question" to introduce a comprehensive topic, as in, "The whole question of climate change requires international cooperation."

What is a good alternative to "the whole question"?

Alternatives include phrases like "the entire issue", "the complete problem", or "the overall matter" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "the whole question" and "the main question"?

"The whole question" suggests a comprehensive overview, while "the main question" points to the most important aspect of a topic. They are not always interchangeable, depending on whether you are looking at all parts of a topic or just the most important part.

When is it appropriate to use "the whole question" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "the whole question" when you are about to address all significant aspects of a complex topic or situation. Ensure your discussion provides a complete overview rather than focusing on isolated details.