The phrase "sixty four dollar questions" is often misspelled as "sixty four dollar question." The correct spelling includes the plural form of the word "questions." The pronunciation of this phrase in IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈsɪkstɪ fɔr ˈdɒlər ˈkwɛstʃənz/. The spelling of "sixty" includes the letter "x" and the pronunciation of the vowel sound /ɪ/. The spelling of "questions" includes the letter "q" followed by the digraph "ue" and the pronunciation of the consonant sound /kw/.
The phrase "sixty four dollar questions" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the United States, stemming from the popularity of the game show "The $64,000 Question," which aired in the 1950s. This phrase is typically used to describe a highly significant or challenging question that demands in-depth knowledge or expertise to answer adequately.
The term conveys the idea that the question is of substantial value and complexity, often pertaining to a crucial issue or topic. It implies that answering such a question correctly or confidently carries a substantial reward, both in terms of intellectual satisfaction and potential real-life consequences. The monetary reference emphasizes the prize offered during the aforementioned game show, creating a parallel between the high stakes of the show and the importance or difficulty of the question.
The phrase "sixty four dollar questions" can also be employed more broadly to emphasize the significance of any difficult or pivotal question, even if it does not involve any financial reward. It implies that the question is of such importance or complexity that it warrants careful consideration and analysis before reaching a conclusion.
In summary, "sixty four dollar questions" refers to inquiries that are highly significant, challenging, and require extensive knowledge or expertise to answer accurately. The phrase connotes the idea of a substantial reward, whether intellectual or otherwise, accompanied by high stakes or consequences for the correct response.