The spelling of the word "crossquestion" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced as /ˈkrɒs.kwɛs.tʃən/ (KROSS-KWES-chən), with the stress on the first syllable, "kross." The word is a verb that means to interrogate someone in a thorough and challenging manner, often to expose inconsistencies or lies. The "cross" in "crossquestion" denotes the rigorous and penetrating nature of the questioning, while "question" refers to the act of inquiry itself.
Cross-question (verb): To interrogate or examine someone closely and in a searching, systematic manner, especially in a legal or formal setting, in order to elicit information or challenge their statements.
When one cross-questions an individual, they aim to obtain further details or clarification by posing a series of pointed inquiries or challenges. This process often occurs during legal proceedings, such as court trials, where the objective is to test the credibility or accuracy of a witness's testimony. Cross-questioning requires astute questioning skills and the ability to carefully analyze the responses to uncover inconsistencies, gaps in information, or hidden motives.
Cross-questioning involves asking targeted, probing questions to delve deeper into the matter at hand. It typically entails challenging or confronting the respondent's statements to assess their veracity or to expose any contradictions. By cross-questioning, the interrogator is intent on disentangling the truth from the complexities surrounding the situation under scrutiny.
Cross-questioning is not limited to legal contexts; it can also be applied in academic or investigative pursuits. In these instances, the aim is to systematically inquire, explore, and critically examine evidence or statements to gain a comprehensive understanding or uncover any hidden agendas. Cross-questioning serves as a means to uncover additional information, identify any inconsistencies or discrepancies, and ensure a thorough assessment of the subject matter or individual being questioned.
The word "cross-question" is derived from the combination of two words: "cross" and "question".
1. Cross: The word "cross" originated from Old English "cros", which stems from the Old Irish "cros" and ultimately from the Latin "crux". It originally referred to the Christian symbol of the cross but later developed to mean "to intersect" or "to go across". In the context of questioning, "cross" implies a different direction or approach than the straightforward line of questioning.
2. Question: The word "question" comes from the Latin "quaestio", meaning "a seeking, inquiry, or question". It was incorporated into Old French in the form of "question" before being adopted into Middle English.
When combined, the term "cross-question" refers to a technique of questioning someone in a challenging or confrontational manner, often used in legal proceedings or interrogations.