[beg] the question
1
to make it necessary to ask a clear question that has not been answered, usually because something important or unclear has been said or done
- The sudden change in plans begs the question of why it happened.
- Their actions beg the question—what are they trying to hide?
- The results beg the question of how the data was collected.
- This decision begs the question—who approved it?
- His explanation begs the question of whether he really understands the issue.
2
to assume something is true without proving it, often using that assumption as part of the reasoning or argument
- Saying the plan will work begs the question that the team is skilled enough.
- His comment begs the question that the data is accurate.
- The claim begs the question that new technology is always better.
- The statement begs the question whether more money always means better results.
- This idea begs the question if all students learn the same way.