question
The word oscillates between a neutral tool for information gathering and a pointed instrument of skepticism. As a noun, it is the standard vehicle for curiosity or inquiry. While usually neutral, the "feeling" changes based on context; in a classroom it suggests learning, while in a courtroom it suggests scrutiny. As a verb, there is a sharp shift toward authority and doubt. To "question someone" often implies an interrogation—a formal, sometimes adversarial process of extracting truth from a suspect or witness. When applied to an idea or decision, the word carries a connotation of challenge. Unlike "wondering," which is internal and passive, "questioning" a decision is an active expression of doubt regarding whether something is right, fair, or true.
Countable when referring to a specific inquiry ('I have one question about the homework'). Uncountable when referring to the general act of doubting or debating a topic ('The decision is now open to question').
💬Casual Conversation
Hey, quick question about David's email on the new project.
Shoot, dude. I probably skimmed it though.
Meanings
To ask someone about something, especially officially or formally.
"question a suspect"
Collocations & Compounds
pop the question
To propose marriage.
out of the question
Impossible or not to be considered.
beg the question
To invite a particular question; or, in logic, to assume the truth of an unproven premise.
open question
A matter that has not yet been decided or resolved.
burning question
An urgent or highly important issue that people want an answer to.
Idioms & Sayings
out of the question
Impossible; not to be considered.
pop the question
To propose marriage.
beyond question
Indisputable; certainly true.
beg the question
To ignore the difficulty of a statement by assuming it to be true.
a question of time
Something that is certain to happen eventually.
Etymology
Derived from Old French 'question', from Latin 'quaestio' ('a seeking, inquiry, examination'), from the verb 'quaerere' ('to seek, ask for, inquire').