QUESTION Synonyms: 270 Similar and Opposite Words
Synonyms for QUESTION: problem, interrogative, quiz, conundrum, riddle, puzzle, poser, toughy; Antonyms of QUESTION: solution, response, answer, reply, willingness, approval, agreement, sanction
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How does the verb question contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of question are ask, inquire, interrogate, and query. While all these words mean "to address a person in order to gain information," question usually suggests the asking of series of questions.

questioned them about every detail of the trip

When can ask be used instead of question?

Although the words ask and question have much in common, ask implies no more than the putting of a question.

ask for directions

In what contexts can inquire take the place of question?

While in some cases nearly identical to question, inquire implies a searching for facts or for truth often specifically by asking questions.

began to inquire of friends and teachers what career she should pursue

When could interrogate be used to replace question?

The meanings of interrogate and question largely overlap; however, interrogate suggests formal or official systematic questioning.

the prosecutor interrogated the witness all day

When would query be a good substitute for question?

In some situations, the words query and question are roughly equivalent. However, query implies a desire for authoritative information or confirmation.

queried a librarian about the book

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

At the same time, scientists are finding that these mystical experiences seem to mediate the therapeutic effect that psychedelics trigger, raising the question of whether the ability to reliably induce them might be a good thing. —Cassady Rosenblum, Rolling Stone, 18 Aug. 2024 Preseason photos: Chicago Bears 27, Cincinnati Bengals 3 The natural question that follows: OK, what’s next for Poles? —Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2024

Verb

Graham questioned where the city would send notices and told council members that expensive litigation could follow. —Jason Clayworth, Axios, 12 Aug. 2024 Wied has questioned the amount of U.S. funding to the international organization. —Lawrence Andrea, Journal Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for question

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'question.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.