rhetorical question
Say it: rih-TOR-ih-kul question /rɪˌtɒrɪk(ə)l ˈkwɛstʃ(ə)n/ · noun
What “rhetorical question” means
A question that makes a point rather than seeking an answer.
More precisely: A question asked for effect or to make a point, not to get an answer.
Example: “'Who doesn't want to save money?' is a rhetorical question every salesperson loves.”
When to use it
In speeches or everyday conversation, when asking something for emphasis and expecting listeners to understand rather than reply.
Similar words
figure of speech, statement in disguise
Quick check
Seeing dishes piled everywhere, your flatmate asks, 'Does this kitchen clean itself?' without expecting an answer. That's…
a leading question or a rhetorical question?
Show the answer
a rhetorical question
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