Top 39 Slang For Question – Meaning & Usage

In a world where communication is constantly evolving, it’s no surprise that even the simple act of asking a question has its own set of slang. From online forums to casual conversations, this listicle is here to decode the top slang for question. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends or simply stay in the loop, we’ve got you covered with the latest and most popular terms for posing those burning inquiries. Get ready to level up your question game and join the ranks of the linguistically hip!

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Big Question

A “big question” refers to a profound or important inquiry that requires deep thought or consideration. It often involves complex or philosophical topics.

For example, “What is the meaning of life?” is a classic big question.
In a debate, someone might pose a big question like, “Is it ever morally justifiable to take another person’s life?”
A teacher might encourage students to think critically by asking a big question such as, “What is the role of government in society?”

2. Bone of Contention

A “bone of contention” is a topic or issue that causes disagreement or conflict among people. It can refer to a question or problem that sparks heated debates or arguments.

For instance, in a political discussion, healthcare reform might be a bone of contention.
In a family gathering, the topic of money can often become a bone of contention.
A journalist might write an article about a controversial issue and describe it as a bone of contention.

3. Brain Teaser

A “brain teaser” is a challenging or puzzling question that requires creative thinking or problem-solving skills to solve. It often involves logic, riddles, or mathematical problems.

For example, “What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and gray when you throw it away? (Answer: Charcoal)”
A teacher might use brain teasers as a fun way to engage students and stimulate their critical thinking skills.
A puzzle enthusiast might enjoy solving brain teasers as a hobby.

4. Can of Worms

A “can of worms” refers to a complicated or troublesome issue that, once opened or addressed, leads to more problems or difficulties.

For instance, discussing controversial social topics like abortion can often be described as opening a can of worms.
In a team meeting, a manager might say, “Let’s avoid opening a can of worms and focus on the main topic.”
A journalist might describe a scandal as a can of worms that unravels and exposes further wrongdoing.

5. Canvass

To “canvass” means to conduct a survey or gather opinions on a specific question or issue. It involves reaching out to individuals or groups to collect information or feedback.

For example, a political candidate might canvass a neighborhood to ask residents about their concerns and gather support.
A market researcher might use surveys to canvass consumers’ opinions on a new product.
A non-profit organization might canvass the community to raise awareness about a particular cause.

6. Open

When someone says “open,” they are referring to being inquisitive or curious about something. It implies a desire for more information or clarification.

For example, someone might ask, “Can I ask you an open question?”
In a discussion, a person might say, “I have an open mind about this topic.”
A teacher might encourage students to be open and ask questions by saying, “Don’t hesitate to ask open questions during the lecture.”

7. Pick One’s Brains

To “pick someone’s brains” means to ask someone for advice, information, or insights on a particular topic. It suggests a desire to tap into someone’s knowledge or expertise.

For instance, a student might say, “Can I pick your brains about this assignment?”
In a brainstorming session, someone might suggest, “Let’s pick each other’s brains and come up with innovative ideas.”
A journalist might ask, “Can I pick your brains for an interview?”

8. Q & A

This term is an abbreviation for “question and answer.” It refers to a format in which someone asks questions and another person provides answers. It is commonly used in interviews, presentations, and discussions.

For example, a moderator might say, “We will now move on to the Q & A session.”
In a live event, someone might ask, “Is there time for Q & A?”
A teacher might assign a Q & A activity, saying, “Complete this worksheet with a partner using the Q & A format.”

9. Rhetorical

When a question is “rhetorical,” it means that the person asking it does not expect or require an answer. The question is asked for emphasis or to make a point rather than to seek information.

For instance, someone might say, “Do you think I care?” as a rhetorical question to convey indifference.
In a speech, a speaker might ask, “Can we really afford to ignore this issue?” as a rhetorical question to prompt reflection.
A writer might use a rhetorical question in an article, such as, “Is there anyone who hasn’t experienced heartbreak?” to engage readers.

10. Tough Nut to Crack

When something is a “tough nut to crack,” it means that it is a difficult question or problem to solve. It implies that finding an answer or solution requires significant effort or expertise.

For example, someone might say, “That math problem is a tough nut to crack.”
In a job interview, a candidate might be asked, “How would you approach a tough nut to crack situation?”
A detective might describe a complex case as, “This is a tough nut to crack, but we’ll find the answers.”

11. Q

This is a shorthand way of referring to a brief or simple question. The letter “Q” is often used in written communication, such as emails or text messages, to indicate a question.

For example, a person might ask, “Q: What time does the meeting start?”
In a group chat, someone might say, “Just a quick Q: Are we meeting at the usual spot?”
A student might write in an email to their professor, “Q: Can you clarify the due date for the assignment?”

12. ?

The question mark symbol “?” is used to indicate a question in written communication. It is often placed at the end of a sentence or phrase to indicate that it is a question.

For instance, someone might ask, “What time is the party?”
In a text message, a person might write, “Are you coming over tonight?”
A teacher might ask their students, “Do you understand the lesson?”

13. Query

This term refers to a formal or official question or request for information. It is often used in professional or technical contexts.

For example, a person might submit a query to a customer service representative, asking for assistance with a product.
In a business setting, someone might write, “I have a query regarding the budget report.”
A journalist might have a query for an interview subject, such as, “Can you provide more details about the incident?”

14. Inquiry

This term refers to a more thorough or in-depth question or investigation into a specific topic or issue. It implies a desire to gather information or seek answers.

For instance, a person might conduct an inquiry into a company’s financial practices.
In a legal context, an attorney might say, “We need to conduct an inquiry into the witness’s background.”
A journalist might write, “The article presents an inquiry into the effects of climate change on coastal communities.”

15. Ask

This term simply means to ask a question or request information from someone. It is a more general term for asking a question.

For example, a person might say, “I need to ask you a question.”
In a job interview, the interviewer might ask, “Can you give an example of a time when you faced a difficult challenge?”
A student might ask their teacher, “Can you explain this concept in more detail?”

16. Enquiry

This refers to the act of seeking information or clarification about something. An enquiry is a formal or official request for information.

For instance, a customer might make an enquiry about a product’s availability.
In a business setting, an employee might send an enquiry to another department for further details.
A journalist might conduct an enquiry to gather information for an investigative report.

17. Quiz

A quiz is a brief assessment or test that typically consists of questions to evaluate someone’s knowledge or understanding of a specific topic.

For example, a teacher might give a pop quiz to check if students have been paying attention.
In a social setting, friends might challenge each other to a quiz on trivia or general knowledge.
A website might offer an online quiz to determine a person’s personality type.

18. Interrogation

Interrogation refers to the act of asking someone a series of questions, often in a formal or intense manner, to gather information or elicit a confession.

For instance, a detective might conduct an interrogation to solve a crime.
In a legal setting, a lawyer might interrogate a witness during a trial.
In a military context, soldiers might undergo interrogation to gather intelligence from captured enemies.

19. Doubt

Doubt refers to a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction about something. It can also be used as a verb to express questioning or disbelief.

For example, someone might express doubt about the accuracy of a news article.
In a relationship, a person might have doubts about their partner’s loyalty.
A student might have doubts about their ability to pass an exam.

20. Probe

Probe can be used as a noun or a verb to describe the act of asking questions or investigating something in a thorough and systematic manner.

For instance, a journalist might probe into a politician’s background to uncover any scandals.
In a scientific context, researchers might use probes to gather data or explore new phenomena.
A detective might probe a suspect for information during an interrogation.

21. Riddle

A riddle is a type of puzzle or brain teaser that presents a question or problem to be solved through clever thinking or deduction. It often involves wordplay or a play on words.

For example, “I have cities but no houses, forests but no trees, and rivers but no water. What am I?”
A person might challenge their friends with a riddle like, “What has keys but can’t open locks?”
Another might share a riddle on social media, asking, “What can you hold in your right hand but never in your left hand?”

22. Problem

In slang, a problem refers to a difficult situation or challenge that needs to be resolved. It can be used to describe any kind of issue or obstacle.

For instance, if someone is struggling with a task, they might say, “I’ve got a problem here. I can’t figure it out.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might say, “Communication is key to solving problems in a partnership.”
A person might express frustration by saying, “Why does everything have to be such a problem?”

23. Mystery

A mystery is something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain. It refers to a situation or event that is puzzling or unknown.

For example, “The disappearance of Amelia Earhart remains a mystery to this day.”
A person might say, “The mystery surrounding the Mona Lisa’s smile has captivated art enthusiasts for centuries.”
Another might discuss a mystery novel they enjoyed, saying, “I love reading Agatha Christie’s mysteries. They always keep me guessing until the end.”

24. Issue

In slang, an issue refers to a problem or concern that needs to be addressed or resolved. It can be used to describe any kind of difficulty or challenge.

For instance, if someone is experiencing a conflict with a friend, they might say, “We have an issue we need to work out.”
In a discussion about politics, someone might say, “Healthcare is a major issue in this election.”
A person might express frustration by saying, “I’m tired of dealing with these constant issues at work.”

25. Investigation

An investigation refers to the process of gathering information or evidence to uncover the truth about a particular situation or event. It often involves searching for answers or solutions to a problem.

For example, “The police launched an investigation into the robbery.”
A person might say, “I’m conducting my own investigation to find out who ate the last slice of pizza.”
Another might discuss a true crime documentary, saying, “The investigation into the murder case was fascinating to watch.”

26. Inquisitiveness

This word refers to the state of being curious or eager to learn or understand something.

For example, “Her inquisitiveness led her to ask many thought-provoking questions.”
A teacher might encourage students’ inquisitiveness by saying, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions and explore new ideas.”
Someone might describe a child as having a natural sense of inquisitiveness, always wanting to know more about the world around them.

27. Wondering

This word describes the act of thinking or reflecting on something, often with a sense of curiosity or uncertainty.

For instance, “I’m wondering what the weather will be like tomorrow.”
A person might say, “I’m just wondering if there’s a better way to do this.”
Someone might ask, “I was wondering if you had any recommendations for a good restaurant in town?”

28. Uncertainty

This word refers to a lack of certainty or confidence in something, often leading to questions or hesitations.

For example, “There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the election.”
A person might say, “I’m feeling uncertainty about my future career path.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might express their uncertainty by saying, “I’m not sure what the right answer is.”

29. Puzzle

This word describes something that is difficult to understand or solve, often requiring thought and investigation.

For instance, “The disappearance of the ancient civilization remains a puzzle to historians.”
A person might say, “The puzzle of human consciousness has puzzled scientists for centuries.”
Someone might ask, “Can you help me solve this puzzle? I can’t figure out how these pieces fit together.”

30. Challenge

This word refers to a difficult task or problem that requires effort and determination to overcome.

For example, “Learning a new language can be a challenge.”
A person might say, “I enjoy taking on challenges because they push me to grow and learn.”
In a discussion about personal goals, someone might mention, “My biggest challenge right now is finding a work-life balance.”

31. Quandary

A difficult situation or problem where a person is uncertain about what to do. “Quandary” is often used to describe a state of indecision or confusion.

For example, “I’m in a quandary about which job offer to accept.”
A person facing a tough decision might say, “I’m in a quandary: should I stay or should I go?”
Someone might ask, “Can you help me? I’m in a quandary and don’t know what to do.”

32. Dilemma

A situation where a person has to choose between two equally difficult or undesirable options. “Dilemma” implies a difficult decision or a choice between two conflicting alternatives.

For instance, “I’m facing a dilemma: should I go to the party or study for the exam?”
A person might say, “I’m in a dilemma: I want to save money, but I also want to go on vacation.”
Someone might ask, “What would you do if you were in my dilemma?”

33. Inquest

An official inquiry or investigation into a matter, often conducted by a coroner or a jury. “Inquest” usually refers to a formal examination to determine the cause of a suspicious death or to gather information about an incident.

For example, “The police conducted an inquest to determine the cause of the accident.”
A person might say, “The inquest revealed new evidence that could change the outcome of the trial.”
Someone might ask, “Do you think the inquest will uncover the truth?”

34. Inquisition

A harsh or intense questioning or interrogation, often associated with a systematic and prolonged investigation. “Inquisition” can also refer to a historical period of intense religious questioning and persecution.

For instance, “The suspect underwent a grueling inquisition by the detectives.”
A person might say, “I felt like I was under inquisition during the job interview.”
Someone might ask, “Have you ever experienced an inquisition-like situation?”

35. Cross-examination

The questioning of a witness by the opposing party’s attorney during a trial or legal proceeding. “Cross-examination” is a method used to challenge or discredit the witness’s testimony.

For example, “The defense attorney aggressively cross-examined the witness.”
A person might say, “The cross-examination revealed inconsistencies in the witness’s story.”
Someone might ask, “How did the witness handle the cross-examination?”

36. Grilling

Grilling refers to the act of asking someone a series of intense and probing questions, often to gather information or test their knowledge.

For example, during a job interview, the interviewer might grill the candidate about their previous work experience.
In a courtroom, a lawyer might grill a witness to uncover inconsistencies in their testimony.
A journalist might grill a politician during an interview to get to the truth of a matter.

37. Quizzing

Quizzing involves asking someone a series of questions to test their knowledge or understanding of a particular subject.

For instance, a teacher might quiz their students on the material they have learned in class.
A friend might quiz another friend on their knowledge of a TV show or movie.
A trivia night at a bar often involves quizzing participants on various topics.

38. Popping the question

Popping the question is a euphemism for asking someone to marry you. It is often used to refer to a marriage proposal.

For example, a person might plan a romantic dinner and then pop the question to their partner.
In movies, a character might get down on one knee and pop the question with a ring.
A friend might excitedly tell another friend, “He finally popped the question!”

39. Brain-teaser

A brain-teaser is a type of puzzle or question that is designed to challenge and stimulate the brain. It often requires creative thinking and problem-solving skills.

For instance, a riddle that requires you to think outside the box can be considered a brain-teaser.
A crossword puzzle or Sudoku can also be categorized as brain-teasers.
A friend might say, “I love solving brain-teasers. They keep my mind sharp!”