In the vast and colorful landscape of English idioms, the phrase ‘vexed question’ stands out for its subtle complexity and historic undertone. This idiom, though not as commonly used in everyday conversation as others, carries a distinct weight when it appears in writing or speech. It implies more than just a difficult question it suggests a matter that has long provoked debate, controversy, or unresolved disagreement. In politics, ethics, law, or even in daily discussions, the ‘vexed question’ often points to issues that people have wrestled with for years, sometimes even generations. Understanding this idiom helps unlock a deeper appreciation of nuanced English expressions, making it an excellent addition to any language learner’s vocabulary.
Meaning of the Idiom ‘Vexed Question’
The idiom vexed question refers to a subject or issue that has caused much disagreement, debate, or difficulty over time. The word ‘vexed’ means annoyed, frustrated, or worried. When paired with question, it turns into an expression that implies the matter at hand is troublesome or controversial.
Key Elements of the Meaning
- Long-standing disagreement: A vexed question typically refers to an issue that has been debated over time without a clear resolution.
- Emotional weight: It often causes strong feelings or annoyance because of its complexity or sensitivity.
- Context-dependent: The idiom can be used in various contexts such as politics, law, ethics, social matters, and relationships.
Origins and Historical Usage
The expression ‘vexed question’ has roots in formal and literary English. It was commonly used in 18th and 19th-century British writing, particularly in discussions of political or legal matters. Writers and thinkers would refer to a ‘vexed question’ to describe issues like slavery, taxation, land reform, or religious freedom subjects that were persistently controversial and difficult to resolve.
Though not as commonly used in modern spoken English, it still appears in editorials, academic topics, and literary works where a sense of depth and history is being conveyed.
Examples of the Idiom in Use
In Politics
The allocation of voting districts remains a vexed question in the country’s electoral reform efforts.
In Ethics
Whether euthanasia should be legalized continues to be a vexed question among bioethicists.
In Law
The right to digital privacy is becoming a vexed question as technology advances faster than legislation.
In Everyday Conversation
It’s a vexed question whether we should move closer to her parents or stay where we are. We’ve been arguing about it for months.
Related Expressions and Synonyms
Understanding similar expressions can help you grasp how vexed question fits into the broader family of idioms and phrases.
- Hot topic: An issue currently generating strong interest or controversy.
- Touchy subject: A subject that people find difficult to talk about without becoming upset or angry.
- Controversial issue: A topic that causes strong disagreement and debate.
- Bone of contention: A point or topic that is the cause of a dispute.
- Debatable matter: An issue open to discussion or argument.
While all these phrases share a core idea that of dispute or sensitivity the idiom ‘vexed question’ has a slightly more formal and serious tone.
How to Use Vexed Question Correctly
Using the idiom correctly depends on context. It’s best used in formal or semi-formal writing or speech. Avoid using it for trivial matters. For instance, don’t describe what to eat for dinner as a vexed question. Save the phrase for situations that have broader implications or reflect deeper concerns.
Example Sentences
- ‘The vexed question of immigration policy continues to divide public opinion.’
- ‘Historians still debate the vexed question of who was truly responsible for the conflict.’
- ‘Climate change remains a vexed question in both science and politics.’
Why Learn the Idiom?
Adding vexed question to your vocabulary offers several benefits:
- Precision in language: It allows you to describe complex or controversial issues with accuracy.
- Style and depth: Using such idioms adds sophistication to your writing and speaking.
- Understanding literature and media: It helps you grasp deeper meanings when reading books, topics, or watching news commentaries.
Tips for English Learners
If you’re learning English and want to become fluent in idiomatic usage, idioms like vexed question are useful tools. Here are some tips:
- Read opinion pieces or editorials where such idioms often appear.
- Practice using the idiom in your own writing, such as essays or discussions about current events.
- Learn it with other formal idioms to broaden your advanced vocabulary.
Misinterpretations to Avoid
Since vexed is not a word commonly used in casual conversation, it can sometimes be misunderstood. Be careful not to confuse vexed with vague. Also, remember that this idiom is not about asking difficult quiz questions it’s about unresolved or emotionally charged issues, not just any challenging topic.
Incorrect Usage
- ‘What is 2 + 2? That’s a vexed question.’ (Incorrect)
- ‘I’m vexed about my lost phone, so it’s a vexed question.’ (Incorrect)
Correct Usage
- ‘The ethics of artificial intelligence is a vexed question that scholars continue to explore.’
The idiom vexed question is a powerful expression for referring to matters that are contentious, unresolved, and emotionally charged. It carries a tone of seriousness and depth that makes it well-suited for discussing complex issues in formal or thoughtful contexts. As a language learner or a fluent English speaker, mastering this idiom helps enhance your communication, especially in debates, analysis, or critical discussions. Keep this idiom in your vocabulary toolbox for those moments when you need just the right phrase to capture a difficult but important issue.