Question
'kwesʧən
Definitions
4 meaningsA sentence or phrase used to elicit information or test knowledge.
'kwesʧən
A sentence or phrase used to seek information.
She posed a difficult question to the speaker.
💡 Simply: A question is like asking 'What?', 'Why?', or 'How?' to find out something you don't know. Like, 'What's your name?' is a question.
👶 For kids: A question is when you ask someone something because you want to know the answer.
More Examples
The teacher answered all of the students' questions.
I have a question about this assignment.
How It's Used
"He asked a question about my weekend."
"The exam consisted of ten multiple-choice questions."
A matter of dispute or doubt.
'kwesʧən
A doubt or uncertainty.
His honesty was above question.
💡 Simply: A question can also mean you're not sure about something, like, 'Is that really true?' or 'I have a question about that, I'm not sure.
👶 For kids: A question can also mean you don't believe something.
More Examples
The project's success is in question.
There is some question about the reliability of the evidence.
How It's Used
"There was no question in her mind about his innocence."
"The validity of the contract was now in question."
To ask someone a question; to interrogate.
'kwesʧən
To ask someone a question.
The reporter questioned the politician about the scandal.
💡 Simply: To question someone is like, well, asking them questions! Like a detective asking a suspect.
👶 For kids: To question is when you ask someone something.
More Examples
The teacher questioned the students about the reading assignment.
She hesitated before questioning his motives.
How It's Used
"I questioned him about the missing item."
"The police questioned the suspect for hours."
To express doubt or skepticism about something.
'kwesʧən
To express doubt about something.
The committee questioned the ethics of the company's actions.
💡 Simply: If you question something, you're not sure if it's true. Like if someone says they can fly, you might question their claim.
👶 For kids: To question something is when you don't think something is true.
More Examples
Scientists began to question the old theories.
I have to question your decision.
How It's Used
"They questioned the validity of the research findings."
"I question his sincerity."
Synonyms
Inquiry
Interrogation
Query
Doubt
Interview
Probe
Challenge
Dispute
Idioms & expressions
in question
Being discussed or considered; at issue.
"The matter in question is the allocation of resources."
beyond question
Without any doubt or uncertainty; undoubtedly.
"Her talent is beyond question."
a question of
Relating to a matter or problem; concerning.
"It's a question of time before they realize what's happening."
no question about it
Without any doubt; certainly.
"No question about it, she's the best in the class."
From Old French *question* (c. 12th c.), from Latin *quaestio* ("a questioning, inquiry"), from *quaerere* ("to ask, seek").
The word 'question' dates back to Middle English, evolving from Old French and Latin, initially signifying a formal inquiry or interrogation.
Memory tip
Think of a 'quest' for knowledge; a question helps you find answers.