OLife'S
The question is whether
Advanced Chunks – Category 3

Meaning

introduces the central issue or uncertainty to be addressed

Primary Function

Introducing a central dilemma

Communicative Purpose

frames the key issue that needs resolution

Pattern

The question is whether

Core Structure

The question is whether

Função primária

Introducing a central dilemma

Propósito comunicativo

frames the key issue that needs resolution

Situações de gatilho

formal discussions, debates, critical thinking exercises

Contextos

academic writing, professional meetings, everyday conversations

Padrão

The question is whether

Estrutura central

The question is whether

Slots de substituição

any clause or phrase that follows "whether" presenting alternatives or possibilities

Colocados típicos

  • cost
  • feasibility
  • potential outcomes

Substituições comuns

  • The issue is whether
  • The problem is whether
  • It remains to be seen whether

Erros comuns

incorrectly using an infinitive after 'whether'

Similar / contraste

We need to decide whether, The problem is that

Interferências

confusing 'whether' with 'if'

Família do chunk

  • dilemma/issue-framing openers

Nuance

formal, analytical, and objective

Efeito pragmático

focuses attention on the core issue

Dica de memória

question mark

Nota

This chunk is used to introduce a central dilemma or uncertainty, often in formal or analytical contexts. It is a semi-fixed structure that can be varied with different subjects or verbs, but the core 'The question is whether' frame is essential for its meaning and function.

Upgrade path

from "The problem is" → "The question is whether" → "The crux of the matter is whether"

Frequência: HighFormulaicidade: Semi-fixedTipo de construção: Sentence framePrioridade de aquisição: Automatic productionPrioridade de output: BothTag de espaçamento: Immediate

Log in to save chunks.