wider question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wider question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a broader or more general issue that encompasses a specific topic or inquiry. Example: "While we have addressed the specific issue at hand, we must also consider the wider question of how this affects our community as a whole."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Those shells represent a far wider question".

The New York Times

"I think there's a wider question.

The Guardian

The wider question is where such public sex scandals leave an American broadcaster.

Independent

It invited the wider question: what is a football club for?

Independent

The wider question is why the public has forgiven or forgotten the attack.

Independent

But the wider question at stake is how to remedy the abuses, where they exist.

The Economist

But it illustrates a much wider question, and one that is eerily familiar.

Independent

There is also the wider question of how Terry's team-mates will respond.

Independent

The wider question is what these semifinals say about men's tennis.

The New York Times - Sports

"There's a wider question that this whole affair raises, which is, where does it stop?

Independent

This raises the wider question of whether local councils should become involved in campaigning.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wider question" to transition from a specific point to a more general issue. This helps create a logical flow in your writing or speech.

Common error

Avoid using "wider question" to abruptly change the subject or avoid answering the initial question directly. This can make your response seem evasive or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wider question" primarily functions as a discourse marker or transitional phrase. It signals a shift in focus from a specific point to a broader issue or inquiry. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable, as seen in its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "wider question" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that serves to broaden the scope of a discussion. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it functions as a discourse marker, signaling a shift from a specific issue to a more general inquiry. It is most commonly found in News & Media and Encyclopedias, lending itself to neutral and formal contexts. To enhance your writing, use "wider question" to effectively transition between points and explore deeper implications, while avoiding misuse as a means of evasion. Consider related phrases like "broader issue" or "larger concern" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broader issue

Focuses on the extensiveness of the topic being discussed, shifting from a question to a matter of concern.

larger concern

Emphasizes the importance and magnitude of the issue at hand, rather than framing it as an inquiry.

underlying problem

Highlights the fundamental issue that needs to be addressed, shifting the focus from inquiry to resolution.

fundamental question

Stresses the core, essential nature of the inquiry, rather than its breadth.

bigger picture

Invites consideration of the overall context and implications, rather than a specific question.

overarching theme

Focuses on a unifying idea that connects various elements, rather than a direct inquiry.

general principle

Shifts the focus to a broad rule or guideline applicable in various situations, diverging from a specific question.

key aspect

Focuses on a specific and important element, in contrast to a general question.

central idea

Emphasizes the core concept or theme, deviating from framing as a direct question.

main consideration

Highlights the most important factor to take into account, differing from a question format.

FAQs

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

You can introduce a "wider question" by first addressing a specific point and then using transitional phrases like "this leads to the "wider question" of..." or "this raises the "wider question" of...". Ensure the broader question is relevant to the initial topic.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "wider question"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "broader issue", "larger concern", "underlying problem", or "fundamental question" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it always necessary to answer the "wider question" that I raise?

While it's not always necessary to provide a definitive answer, acknowledging and briefly addressing the implications of the "wider question" can enhance the depth and thoughtfulness of your analysis. You could also point to areas for further exploration.

How does the "wider question" differ from the initial question?

The "wider question" expands beyond the immediate scope of the initial question, exploring the broader context, implications, or underlying issues. It invites a more comprehensive analysis and consideration of related factors.