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.

The senator said he responded, “Is that a rhetorical question, or would you like to really know?”

From Salon • Jun. 26, 2026

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

Exhausted and exasperated, the quarterback had a rhetorical question for the cluster: “Can’t you let a guy sulk in peace?”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2025

An ally of Mr Philp suggested the minister had been asking a rhetorical question, rather than a real one, as he tried to clarify what he had been asked.

From BBC • Apr. 26, 2024

This is what Siobhan says is called a rhetorical question.

From "The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time" by Mark Haddon

rhetorical question

Example Sentences

Related Words