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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

An ally of the Home Office minister later suggested he had been posing a rhetorical question.

From BBC • Apr. 28, 2024

Looking at recent years and at its current ownership, one must wonder if this is a rhetorical question.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2024

“For what child does not like being treated kindly by an adult?” is a rhetorical question.

From "The Unseen Guest" by Maryrose Wood