Commentary: QUESTION[+event][+expression][+linguistic][+sentence][+interrogative] [+action][+utterance][+inquiry]
NOTE: the focus is on the linguistic form, the interrogative expression
NOTE: implies that the speech act is being directed specifically to someone by someone.
Examples:
In English, questions are often indicated by rising intonation at the end of the sentence.
At the end of each talk there will be five minutes for questions from the audience.
Johnny couldn't answer the teacher's question because he wasn't paying attention in class.
The bill was passed without a single question being asked from the floor. (implies question directed to someone)
The defense objected to a leading question to a witness made by the prosecution.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: QUESTION[+abstract][+content][+issue]
NOTE: does not imply a question directed to any specific person (Sense 1)
NOTE: implies an issue that is posed generally or at large.
Examples:
The question of disease merits serious discussion.
Let us return to the question of charitable donations.
'To be or not to be, that is the question' Hamlet (asking himself, but presenting an issue relevant for all)
Prestige in their society is not only a question of social class, but also of age.
Making money in the markets is a question of timing.
Whether or not we are now seeing effects from human-caused climate change is a question being hotly debated.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: QUESTION[+state][-certainty]
NOTE: Does not make an inquiry, asserts a state of certainty or uncertainty.
Examples:
There is some question as to whether the Senate will pass this bill.
His integrity is beyond question. (no doubt exists)
We have assumed, without question, that he is competent to run this company.
Mary said it was out of the question for her twelve-year-old to travel alone to Paris. (no likelihood at all)
There was no question that the prisoners would be executed.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: QUESTION[+action][+utterance][+protocol][+meeting] A formal proposal for action, usually a vote, made to a deliberative body.
Examples:
She called for the Congressional question at the end of the debate.
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1
Commentary: QUESTION[+action][+proposal][+marriage] Used only in the expression "pop the question", which means asking to marry someone.
Examples:
Tonight I was at dinner with John, and he popped the question!
Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1