Definitions

rhetorical question

[ri-tawr-i-kuhl kwes-chuhn, -tor-] / rɪˈtɔr ɪ kəl ˈkwɛs tʃən, -ˈtɒr- /

NOUN

answer

Synonyms

STRONGEST

comment explanation feedback interpretation justification key observation rebuttal remark report resolution response result return sign solution statement

STRONG

acknowledgment antiphon close comeback cooler counterclaim crack defense disclosure echo elucidation guff lip plea refutation rejoinder repartee retort riposte topper vindication wisecrack

WEAK

Band-Aid back talk backcap parting shot pay dirt quick fix thank-you note the ticket

Antonyms

STRONGEST

problem question quiet request silence trouble

NOUN

open question

Synonyms

WEAK

anybody's guess loose end question toss of a coin

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a concurring opinion, Gorsuch stated the stakes more plainly by posing a rhetorical question: If the president’s argument was given credence, then “what do we make of the Constitution’s text?”

From Salon • Feb. 21, 2026

It’s not entirely a rhetorical question; a lot of people at least pretended to.

From Salon • Aug. 17, 2025

"I was asking that as a clearly rhetorical question rather than a substantive question, as I think any fair-minded listener would conclude."

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2024

Dad would often ask the rhetorical question, “What would grandma think?”

From Seattle Times • Jan. 19, 2024

That was obviously a rhetorical question; Mrs. Burt wasn't even looking at her.

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell

rhetorical question

Example Sentences

Related Words