QUESTION MARK Meaning and
Definition
-
A question mark is a punctuation mark denoting an interrogative sentence or expressing doubt or uncertainty in written text. It is represented graphically as a small dot above a curved line, resembling a backward facing letter "C."
Primarily used in English and some other languages, a question mark is placed at the end of an interrogative sentence to indicate a direct or indirect question about a particular subject or matter. By craftily forming a question, speakers and writers seek information, clarification, or assistance from their audience or readers. The question mark serves as a visual cue, signaling the intonation and tone change typically used when requesting information.
Additionally, the question mark can also convey doubt, uncertainty, skepticism, or confusion. It implies a sense of ambiguity and leaves room for speculation or further investigation. In this context, it is employed to indicate that a statement might be questionable or to raise doubts about a particular concept, idea, or belief.
The question mark has become a crucial tool for effective communication as it enables speakers and writers to efficiently express their inquisitiveness and skepticism. Its usage helps facilitate clearer comprehension and engagement between individuals.
Common Misspellings for QUESTION MARK
- questionmark
- 1uestion mark
- 2uestion mark
- wuestion mark
- auestion mark
- qyestion mark
- qhestion mark
- qjestion mark
- qiestion mark
- q8estion mark
- q7estion mark
- quwstion mark
- qusstion mark
- qudstion mark
- qurstion mark
- qu4stion mark
- qu3stion mark
- queation mark
- queztion mark
- quextion mark
Etymology of QUESTION MARK
The word "question mark" originated from the Latin term "quaestio" meaning "question" and the Latin word "marca" meaning "mark" or "sign".
In the 19th century, English scholars began referring to the punctuation symbol as a "question mark" due to its function in indicating the end of a direct question in written text. It is worth noting that various other names had been used for this symbol throughout history, such as "punctus interrogativus" in Medieval Latin and "point d'interrogation" in French. However, the term "question mark" has been widely adopted in English since then.
Idioms with the word QUESTION MARK
-
a question mark hangs over somebody/something
The idiom "a question mark hangs over somebody/something" means that there is doubt, uncertainty, or an unanswered question about a person, thing, or situation. It suggests that further clarification or resolution is needed for a clear understanding or conclusion.
-
question mark over
The idiom "question mark over" refers to expressing doubt, uncertainty, or skepticism about something. It implies that there are unresolved uncertainties or doubts regarding a particular situation, statement, or individual. It often indicates a lack of clarity or ambiguity.
-
a question mark over
The idiom "a question mark over" refers to a situation or circumstance that is uncertain, doubtful, or unresolved. It implies that there are doubts, hesitations, or anxieties regarding a particular thing or event.
-
a question mark over sth
The idiom "a question mark over something" means there are doubts or uncertainties about something, typically implying a lack of clarity, trust, or confidence in a particular situation, idea, or outcome. It suggests that there is reason to question or doubt the legitimacy, viability, or reliability of the subject being referred to.
Similar spelling words for QUESTION MARK
- question time,
- questionnaire,
- questioner,
- question of law,
- questionable,
- questioning,
- question of fact,
- questioningly,
- question sheet,
- questionably,
- question master.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
