true question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "true question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize the authenticity or seriousness of a question being asked. Example: "In this debate, we must address the true question of whether our policies are effective in reducing poverty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

The true question here is instead the proper scope and effect of the privilege against self-incrimination under the Fourteenth Amendment in state disciplinary proceedings against attorneys.

Cornell University

But even the youngest reader has lived enough to grasp the true question, which is "Who am I?" Without its mother, a baby has no reflection.

The New Yorker

"The true question for the United Nations today and for people all over the world. . . is a basic one," Trump said.

The Washington Post

"The true question of the Industrial Revolution," one professor writes, "is not why it took place at all but why it was sustained beyond, say, 1820".

The New York Times

QUESTION FROM MATT: P.S. Politifact: Obama's claim that Romney's tax plan doesn't add up — Mostly True QUESTION FROM ANGELA: Candy is no Martha.

The New Yorker

Mr. LANSING, observed that the true question here was, whether the Convention would adhere to or depart from the foundation of the present Confederacy; and moved instead of the 2d.

Yale University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

If true, questions still remain: At what human cost?

The New York Times

Today's fighting words will be reduced to tomorrow's interesting anecdotes, but the true questions at the heart of every presidential election will remain.

The New York Times

We've really asked ourselves 'what is it that we really need?' We've asked really true questions, and evaluated every single thing that we have.

BBC

Importantly, asking true questions requires deference to the object of enquiry 1 rather than to either predetermined lesson plans or identified learning needs.

BMJ Quality and Safety

Ask true questions!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "true question", ensure it genuinely represents the crux of the matter being discussed. It should highlight the most important aspect that needs to be addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "true question" when a simpler term like "question" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily dramatic or inflated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "true question" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies and emphasizes the core or most important inquiry within a discussion or problem. As evidenced by Ludwig, this phrase is often used to highlight the essential aspect that needs to be addressed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Academia

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "true question" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to emphasize the core inquiry in a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. It serves to highlight the most significant question at hand, distinguishing it from secondary or less relevant inquiries. While alternatives like "real question" or "essential question" exist, "true question" effectively underscores the authenticity and importance of the issue being addressed. When employing this phrase, ensure it genuinely represents the central point to avoid overusing it in simplistic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

real question

Emphasizes the authenticity and genuineness of the question being posed.

essential question

Highlights the core or most important aspect of the matter at hand.

fundamental question

Indicates the basic or foundational nature of the inquiry.

core question

Focuses on the central or innermost part of the question.

primary question

Signifies the most important or initial question to be addressed.

underlying question

Points to the question that lies beneath the surface or is not immediately apparent.

actual question

Stresses what the question really is, often in contrast to a perceived or stated question.

key question

Highlights the significance of the question as a determinant.

central issue

Shifts the focus to the main point of contention or discussion.

critical inquiry

Emphasizes the importance and necessity of questioning something.

FAQs

How can I use "true question" in a sentence?

Use "true question" to emphasize the fundamental or most important question in a discussion or debate. For example, "The "true question" is whether we can afford to implement these policies."

What phrases are similar to "true question"?

Similar phrases include "real question", "essential question", "fundamental question", and "core question". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "the real true question"?

Yes, saying "the real "true question"" is generally redundant. Both "real" and "true" serve to emphasize the authenticity or importance of the question, so using both is unnecessary.

When should I use "true question" over just "question"?

Use "true question" when you want to highlight that a particular question is more important, fundamental, or revealing than others that might be raised. It adds emphasis and signals that this is the key issue to consider.