- Refers to a matter that has not yet been decided, answered, or resolved. It implies that the issue is still under consideration or that the outcome is unknown and subject to future events or decisions.
Explanation
Origin
- A straightforward descriptive phrase. Open signifies not closed, concluded, or finalized.
- Contrasts with a closed question which typically has a definitive yes/no or factual answer. An open question here means an unresolved issue, not necessarily a type of interrogative sentence structure.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Still up in the air
- Who knows?
- We'll see
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- (Generally not used with vulgarity, as it's about lack of resolution)
Milder/Formal:
- Yet to be determined
- An unresolved matter
- Subject to further developments
- Remains unclear
Situational Appropriateness
- Suitable for both informal and formal contexts.
- Common in discussions about plans, research, investigations, strategy, and philosophical debates.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Distinguish from the grammatical term open-ended question (one that requires more than a yes/no answer). While related in concept (implying non-closure), an open question refers specifically to an unresolved *issue* or *matter*.
Examples
- Whether the company will relocate next year remains an open question.
- His motive for committing the crime is still an open question for investigators.
- It's an open question whether technology truly makes us happier. (Used for philosophical/unresolved debates)
Dialogue
Professor Lee: So, we've seen the effects of the policy in the short term.
Student: But what about the long-term economic impact?
Professor Lee: That's still very much an open question. We'll need several more years of data to really understand the consequences. Different economists have very different predictions right now.
Student: So, no consensus yet?
Professor Lee: Not at all. It remains an open question.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Will remote work become the permanent standard? It's still an open question for many industries. #FutureOfWork #RemoteWork
- Blog Post Title: Is Free Will an Illusion? An Open Question in Philosophy and Neuroscience.
- Forum Discussion: Who was the *real* villain in the series? It's kind of an open question, depends on your interpretation.
Response Patterns
- Acknowledgment of the uncertainty: Right, we don't know yet.
- Speculation about possible answers or outcomes.
- Discussion of factors influencing the eventual resolution.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After identifying something as an open question:
- What needs to happen for it to be decided?
- When do you think we might get an answer?
- People might offer their theories or opinions on the likely resolution.
Conversation Starter
- Yes.
- Can be used to introduce a topic for discussion or debate, especially philosophical or strategic ones (e.g., It's an open question whether AI will ultimately benefit humanity.).
Intonation
- Emphasis usually falls on open. Often delivered thoughtfully or highlighting the lack of resolution. That's still an OPEN question.
Generation Differences
- Understood and used across all generations.
Regional Variations
- Widely used and understood in all major English-speaking regions.