A key question is
Academic essay writing expression
Use this phrase to signal the most important point in a serious discussion or essay.
15초 만에
- Highlights the most important part of a complex problem.
- Commonly used in academic essays and professional business meetings.
- Signals that you are thinking critically and strategically.
뜻
This phrase is like a spotlight. It tells your audience to stop looking at the small details and focus on the most important problem that needs solving.
주요 예문
3 / 6In a university essay
A key question is whether these economic policies actually benefit the poor.
A key question is whether these economic policies actually benefit the poor.
During a business meeting
A key question is how we plan to scale this project by next year.
A key question is how we plan to scale this project by next year.
Discussing a movie with friends
A key question is why the main character decided to leave his family.
A key question is why the main character decided to leave his family.
문화적 배경
This phrase reflects the Western academic emphasis on 'problem-solving' and 'critical analysis.' It is designed to signal that the speaker has filtered through data to find the most significant variable. It is a hallmark of the 'Socratic' style of inquiry often taught in law and philosophy schools.
The 'Whether' Connection
This phrase pairs perfectly with `whether`. It sounds much more professional than using `if` in written reports.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this three times in one paragraph, you'll sound like a broken record. Try `Another vital consideration is` for variety.
15초 만에
- Highlights the most important part of a complex problem.
- Commonly used in academic essays and professional business meetings.
- Signals that you are thinking critically and strategically.
What It Means
Think of a messy room full of boxes. You are looking for your car keys. Everything else in the room is a distraction. A key question is works exactly like that. It helps you push aside the noise. It points directly to the one thing that matters most. It suggests that if we answer this one thing, everything else becomes clear. It is a tool for clarity and focus.
How To Use It
You usually put this phrase at the very start of a sentence. It acts as a signpost for your listener. You can follow it with words like whether, how, if, or why. For example, A key question is whether we can afford this. It sounds organized and thoughtful. It shows you have analyzed the situation deeply. You are not just talking; you are thinking strategically.
When To Use It
This is a superstar in academic writing and business meetings. Use it when you want to look professional. It works great when you are debating a topic with friends too. If the group is stuck, use this to bring them back to the main point. It makes you sound like the most logical person in the room. It is perfect for essays, presentations, or serious emails.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid using this for very simple or silly things. If you ask, A key question is whether I should buy chocolate, you sound a bit too dramatic. It might come off as sarcastic or overly formal in a relaxed setting. Don't use it if the answer is already obvious to everyone. It is meant to highlight a genuine mystery or a difficult choice. Using it too much makes your writing feel repetitive.
Cultural Background
In Western communication, people value 'getting to the point.' We love speakers who can simplify complex issues. This phrase is a staple of 'critical thinking' culture. It shows you are not just accepting information. You are actively looking for the core logic. It became popular in academic circles to help structure logical arguments. Now, it is a sign of high-level English proficiency.
Common Variations
You might also hear The real question is or The big question is. If you want to sound even more formal, try The central issue is. In casual talk, people often just say The thing is. However, A key question is remains the most balanced and professional choice. It strikes a perfect chord between being smart and being clear.
사용 참고사항
This phrase is highly versatile but leans toward formal and professional registers. It is a 'signposting' expression used to guide the reader's attention to a specific logical point.
The 'Whether' Connection
This phrase pairs perfectly with `whether`. It sounds much more professional than using `if` in written reports.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this three times in one paragraph, you'll sound like a broken record. Try `Another vital consideration is` for variety.
The Power of One
In English-speaking business culture, focusing on 'the' key question shows you are a leader who doesn't get distracted by small details.
예시
6A key question is whether these economic policies actually benefit the poor.
A key question is whether these economic policies actually benefit the poor.
Used here to introduce the main thesis or problem of the paper.
A key question is how we plan to scale this project by next year.
A key question is how we plan to scale this project by next year.
Focuses the team on a specific logistical challenge.
A key question is why the main character decided to leave his family.
A key question is why the main character decided to leave his family.
Adds a bit of intellectual depth to a casual conversation.
A key question is: who is actually bringing the tent?
A key question is: who is actually bringing the tent?
Uses formal phrasing for a practical, slightly urgent detail.
A key question is whether pineapple truly belongs on a pizza.
A key question is whether pineapple truly belongs on a pizza.
The formal tone makes the silly topic sound more important.
A key question is if we are both heading in the same direction.
A key question is if we are both heading in the same direction.
Helps address a difficult topic with clarity and focus.
셀프 테스트
Choose the best word to complete the academic sentence.
A ___ question is how the new law will affect small businesses.
The word `key` is used metaphorically to mean 'essential' or 'central' to the problem.
Complete the phrase used to introduce a central problem.
A key ___ is whether the technology is safe for public use.
The phrase is `A key question is`, used to pose a problem that needs an answer.
🎉 점수: /2
시각 학습 자료
Formality of 'A key question is'
The real question is...
The real question is: who's paying?
A key question is...
A key question is how we get there.
A central inquiry remains...
A central inquiry remains regarding the fiscal impact.
Where to use 'A key question is'
Academic Essay
Analyzing a historical event.
Boardroom
Deciding on a company merger.
Serious Debate
Discussing climate change with peers.
Project Planning
Identifying the biggest risk in a plan.
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Yes, both are correct. The key question implies there is only one, while A key question suggests it is one of several important ones.
Not at all. It is very common in spoken English, especially in meetings, interviews, or news broadcasts.
In this context, key means 'essential' or 'most important.' Think of it as the key that unlocks a door to understanding.
You can, but it might sound a bit serious. It is better for when you are actually trying to solve a problem with a friend.
It is slightly more sophisticated. A key question sounds like you are inviting a discussion, whereas The main problem sounds a bit more negative.
Usually, no. You go straight into the question, like A key question is how we proceed. No comma is needed before how or whether.
No, it almost always introduces the question. It would be very rare and awkward to see it at the end.
Yes, it is a classic C1/C2 phrase. It shows you can structure complex thoughts and use academic signposting correctly.
Yes, the part that follows should be a question or a 'whether/if' statement. You wouldn't follow it with a simple noun.
Yes, A key issue is is a very close synonym. It is often used when talking about a negative problem rather than a mystery.
관련 표현
The crux of the matter
The most important or decisive point of an issue.
The bottom line is
The most important fact or the final result of a situation.
A major consideration
An important factor that must be thought about before making a decision.
The elephant in the room
A major problem or controversial issue that is present but everyone is ignoring.
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