unresolved question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unresolved question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a question or issue that has not yet been answered or settled. Example: "The unresolved question of climate change continues to be a topic of debate among scientists and policymakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Right now, it's an unresolved question".

The New York Times

The unresolved question is whether the Iraqis were amply provoked.

The New Yorker

"It's a very significant as yet unresolved question".

The New York Times

The unresolved question is which policy areas a third President Bush would emphasize.

The New Yorker

The unresolved question for both currency areas is how to make them work better.

The Economist

Its status as a spoken language in western and central Anatolia is an unresolved question.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The only unresolved question is whether the champagne should be warm or cold," he added.

Independent

The unresolved question is whether it can be made to work for everyone else.

The New York Times

One unresolved question is the precise direction the supporters of new legislation decide to take.

The New York Times

REFLECTIONS about the end of Leninism in the USSR & the unresolved question of what comes next.

The New Yorker

It's a pointer to the unresolved question of our Australian identity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "unresolved question", ensure that the context clearly indicates what makes the question unresolved. Providing background or context will enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "unresolved question" when the issue is trivial or already has a widely accepted answer. Reserve it for genuine uncertainties or debates.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unresolved question" functions as a noun phrase where "unresolved" modifies "question". It serves to identify a query or problem that lacks a definitive answer. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unresolved question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote an issue that lacks a definitive answer, according to Ludwig. Appearing predominantly in scientific and news-related contexts, its usage spans various levels of formality. Consider using alternatives such as "unsettled question" or "open question" for subtle variations in meaning. When employing "unresolved question", be sure to offer sufficient context to clarify the nature of the uncertainty. Avoiding its use for trivial matters will maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unsettled question

Replaces "unresolved" with "unsettled", emphasizing the lack of a final decision.

unanswered question

Focuses on the absence of an answer rather than a resolution.

open question

Highlights that the issue is still being considered and is not closed.

pending question

Emphasizes that the question is waiting to be addressed.

unaddressed question

Indicates that the question has not yet been discussed or dealt with.

outstanding question

Suggests that the question remains prominent and requires attention.

undecided matter

Shifts the focus to the lack of a decision on the issue.

unresolved issue

Substitutes "question" with "issue", broadening the scope to include problems.

matter in dispute

Highlights the element of disagreement or contention surrounding the question.

contested point

Emphasizes the aspect of debate or argument associated with the question.

FAQs

What does "unresolved question" mean?

An "unresolved question" refers to a question or issue that has not yet been answered or settled. It remains open for discussion or further investigation.

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

You can use "unresolved question" to introduce a topic that is still under debate or lacks a definitive answer. For example: "The "unsettled question" of climate change's impact remains a concern."

What can I say instead of "unresolved question"?

Alternatives include "open question", "pending question", or "unanswered question". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "unresolved question" or "unsettled question"?

Both "unresolved question" and "unsettled question" are acceptable. "Unresolved" suggests the issue hasn't been dealt with, while "unsettled" implies it lacks a final decision. The choice depends on the subtle emphasis you want to make.