leading question

[ lee-ding ]

noun

1. a question so worded as to suggest the proper or desired answer.

leading question

/ ˈliːdɪŋ /

noun

1. a question phrased in a manner that tends to suggest the desired answer, such as What do you think of the horrible effects of pollution?

leading question

1. An unfair question that is designed to guide the respondent: “You were drunk the night of the accident, weren't you, Mr. Norris?”

Word History and Origins

Origin of leading question¹

First recorded in 1815–25

Idioms and Phrases

A question worded so as to elicit particular information or a particular answer, as in When are you selling the business? This example assumes that the person is going to sell the business, an action that may not have been established or revealed. This expression originated with a specific meaning in law, that is, “a question that guides a witness toward a desired answer.” In court, this practice is called leading a witness and is forbidden. [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

This is a leading question, but are you frustrated to see the Democrats playing emergency politics once again in this election?

From Salon

So it’s not posing any leading questions, not expressing any judgment.

From Los Angeles Times

He appeared to want to avoid graphic testimony, meandering answers and leading questions.

From New York Times

Mr. Trump said the television program “should be ashamed of themselves” for asking “leading questions” and treating Mr. Biden “like a lost child.”

From Washington Times

Three years later, here for gigs with his jazz band, Allen answered a Times reporter’s leading question that maybe L.A.’s not such a bad place after all?

From Los Angeles Times