simple question
سؤال بسيط
Use it to signal that your request is brief and won't be a burden to answer.
En 15 secondes
- A direct query requiring a short, uncomplicated answer.
- Used to lower social pressure and save time.
- Common in both professional emails and casual texts.
Signification
This phrase describes a query that is easy to understand and doesn't require a complex or long-winded explanation.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6At a coffee shop
I have a simple question: do you have oat milk?
I have a simple question: do you have oat milk?
In a business meeting
Before we move on, I have one simple question about the budget.
Before we move on, I have one simple question about the budget.
Texting a friend
Simple question: are we meeting at 7 or 8?
Simple question: are we meeting at 7 or 8?
Contexte culturel
The phrase reflects the Western cultural value of brevity and directness in communication. It became a staple of 'office speak' to minimize perceived intrusion on a colleague's workflow. Interestingly, it is often used as a rhetorical device to introduce a surprisingly difficult topic.
The 'Quick' Swap
In very fast-paced environments, swap 'simple' for 'quick'. Saying 'Quick question!' is the ultimate way to get someone's attention without annoying them.
Don't Lie!
If your question is actually going to lead to a 20-minute debate, don't call it simple. People will feel 'tricked' into a long conversation.
En 15 secondes
- A direct query requiring a short, uncomplicated answer.
- Used to lower social pressure and save time.
- Common in both professional emails and casual texts.
What It Means
At its heart, a simple question is one that is direct. It usually asks for a fact, a 'yes' or 'no', or a basic preference. You aren't asking for the meaning of life here. You just want to know what time it is or if someone likes pizza. It is the opposite of a 'loaded question' or a 'complex inquiry'.
How To Use It
You can use this phrase to lower the pressure. Start your sentence with "I have a simple question" to show you won't take much time. It acts like a social lubricant. It tells the listener they don't need to overthink their answer. Use it when you need a quick favor or a fast piece of information.
When To Use It
Use it at work when you need a quick status update. Use it at a restaurant when asking about a menu item. It’s perfect for texting a friend when you just need a location. It also works well when you are genuinely confused by something basic. For example, "I have a simple question: where is the power button?"
When NOT To Use It
Don't use it if the answer is actually going to be very long. That can feel annoying or sarcastic to the listener. Avoid using it if you are asking something deeply personal or emotional. Calling a question about a breakup a simple question might seem insensitive. Also, don't use it if you are trying to trap someone in an argument. That’s not simple; that’s a trick!
Cultural Background
In English-speaking cultures, people value their time highly. By labeling your query as a simple question, you are showing respect for their schedule. It’s a way of saying, "I won't keep you long." It is a very common 'softener' in American and British English. It helps avoid sounding too demanding or aggressive when you need something.
Common Variations
You might hear people say "just a quick question" or "a basic question." Sometimes people say "a straightforward question" in more professional settings. If someone is being humble, they might say "a silly question." All of these aim to make the interaction feel easier and less formal.
Notes d'usage
The phrase is highly versatile and works in almost any setting. The only risk is using it for a question that is actually very complicated, which can come across as dismissive.
The 'Quick' Swap
In very fast-paced environments, swap 'simple' for 'quick'. Saying 'Quick question!' is the ultimate way to get someone's attention without annoying them.
Don't Lie!
If your question is actually going to lead to a 20-minute debate, don't call it simple. People will feel 'tricked' into a long conversation.
The Sarcastic Twist
Sometimes, English speakers say 'That's a simple question' sarcastically when the answer is actually incredibly difficult. Listen for the tone!
Exemples
6I have a simple question: do you have oat milk?
I have a simple question: do you have oat milk?
A basic factual inquiry about availability.
Before we move on, I have one simple question about the budget.
Before we move on, I have one simple question about the budget.
Used to clarify a point without derailing the meeting.
Simple question: are we meeting at 7 or 8?
Simple question: are we meeting at 7 or 8?
Efficient way to confirm plans via text.
It's a simple question, but how do I turn this toaster on?
It's a simple question, but how do I turn this toaster on?
Self-deprecating humor regarding a basic task.
Just a simple question: did you have a good day?
Just a simple question: did you have a good day?
Shows care without demanding a deep conversation immediately.
Excuse me, a simple question—is the station nearby?
Excuse me, a simple question—is the station nearby?
Polite way to interrupt someone briefly.
Teste-toi
Choose the best word to complete the phrase used to introduce a quick inquiry.
I have a ___ question: what time does the movie start?
The context of asking for a movie time implies a quick, factual answer, making 'simple' the natural choice.
Complete the sentence to sound polite in an office setting.
Sorry to bother you, but I just have one ___ question.
Using 'simple' assures the colleague that the interruption will be brief.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality of 'Simple Question'
Texting friends or family.
Simple question: Pizza tonight?
Standard daily interactions.
I have a simple question about the bus.
Professional emails or meetings.
May I ask a simple question regarding the report?
Where to use 'Simple Question'
Retail
Does this come in blue?
Office
When is the deadline?
Home
Who fed the dog?
Travel
Where is the gate?
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, it is very polite because it signals that you respect the other person's time. For example, I have a simple question sounds less demanding than just asking the question immediately.
Absolutely. It's great for the opening of a short email, like Hi John, I have a simple question about tomorrow's schedule.
The opposite is often called a complex question or a difficult question. In some contexts, it might be a loaded question if it's meant to trap someone.
Not exactly. A silly question implies you might be embarrassed to ask it, whereas a simple question just means the answer is short.
Yes, it's perfect for bosses. It shows you are being efficient and not wasting their time with unnecessary details.
No, but it should be something that can be answered in one or two sentences. Where is the bathroom? is a perfect simple question.
Be careful. If you say I have a simple question: why are you late? it can sound quite aggressive or accusatory.
Stress the word simple. Say it quickly and smoothly: SIM-ple ques-tion.
You can, but simple question is a more common collocation. Easy question sounds more like something a teacher would say during a quiz.
That's okay! You labeled it as simple to be polite. If they choose to talk more, you've still done your part to be brief.
Expressions liées
Quick question
An inquiry that will take very little time.
Straightforward question
A question that is honest and not confusing.
Basic inquiry
A formal way to ask for fundamental information.
Point-blank question
A very direct, sometimes blunt, question.
Commentaires (0)
Connectez-vous pour CommenterCommencez à apprendre les langues gratuitement
Commence Gratuitement