timeless question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'timeless question' is correct and usable in written English.
We can use it to refer to a question that has persisted throughout time and still has relevance today. For example: 'What is the meaning of life?', is a timeless question which many people have sought to answer throughout history.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

"Why us?" she asked, the timeless question of victims.

The New York Times

Many riders tussle daily with the timeless question: local or express?

The New York Times

In the "Ring" Wagner grapples with a timeless question: What do our gods look like?

The New York Times - Arts

Throughout the discussion, a timeless question recurred: Is Obama truly a writer, or is he just a person who writes?

The New Yorker

Films like Bernie and Funny People force grumpy old men, naysayers and spoilsports to confront the timeless question: will wonders never cease?

The Guardian - Film

The historical details in this short book powerfully ground it in its moment, but a timeless question drives the story: Will the two friends, Joey and Albert, ever see each other again?

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

"The play asks timeless questions about community, God, family and artistic talent," he said.

The New York Times

These are not necessarily timeless questions, at least not in the way that fundamental problems of philosophy are.

The New York Times

For a subject that is supposed to grapple with timeless questions, philosophy is chronically vulnerable to changing fashions.

The Guardian - Books

What I like about the play is that domestic comedy is used to explore both topical and timeless questions.

The Guardian

Profound answers about timeless questions were not reached, but the participants all agreed on the trilogy's literary merits, or lack thereof.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "timeless question", consider providing a fresh perspective or a new angle on the issue, rather than simply restating the question itself.

Common error

Avoid using "timeless question" as a mere filler phrase without offering genuine insight or exploration. Make sure the question you're posing truly has enduring relevance and is not just a trivial or easily answered query.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "timeless question" serves as a noun phrase, functioning as a subject or object to introduce fundamental and enduring inquiries. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, showing examples where it sets the stage for exploring lasting themes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "timeless question" is a commonly used phrase that introduces inquiries of lasting relevance across different domains. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, appearing in numerous news articles and academic contexts. While primarily neutral in tone, it can convey a sense of formality depending on the situation. When using the phrase, remember to introduce a topic that has been debated throughout history. Consider alternative expressions, such as "perennial question" or "enduring question", to fine-tune the specific emphasis and nuance you desire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perennial question

Emphasizes the recurring nature of the question.

enduring question

Highlights the lasting quality and continued relevance of the question.

classic question

Stresses the established and well-recognized nature of the question.

fundamental question

Points to the question's importance as a basic or essential inquiry.

universal question

Indicates that the question is applicable to everyone, regardless of time or place.

age-old question

Highlights the long history and tradition associated with the question.

eternal question

Emphasizes the question's infinite or never-ending nature.

recurring question

Focuses on the fact that the question comes up repeatedly.

abiding question

Suggests the question remains present and unresolved over time.

long-standing question

Indicates the question has been around for a considerable period.

FAQs

How can I effectively introduce a "timeless question" in my writing?

Start by establishing the historical context or the enduring relevance of the issue. Then, clearly articulate the "timeless question" and explain why it remains significant in the present day.

What are some common examples of a "timeless question"?

Examples include "What is the meaning of life?", "What is the nature of good and evil?", or "How can we achieve lasting peace?". These are all fundamental inquiries that have been pondered by philosophers and thinkers across generations.

How does a "timeless question" differ from a regular question?

A "timeless question" is not simply a query, but rather a profound and enduring inquiry that transcends specific time periods or contexts. It delves into fundamental aspects of human existence or the nature of the world.

When is it appropriate to use an alternative to "timeless question"?

Consider alternatives like "perennial question" or "enduring question" if you want to emphasize the recurring or lasting nature of the inquiry. Choose the phrasing that best fits the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.