Counterquestion

/ˌkaʊntərˈkwɛstʃən/ noun

Definition

A question posed in reply to or as a challenge against another question.

Etymology

From counter- + question, from Old French question, from Latin quaestio. The compound emerged as people needed a term for the common rhetorical practice of answering questions with opposing questions.

Kelly Says

Kids are masters of counterquestions—when you ask 'Why aren't you doing your homework?' they respond with 'But why do I have to do homework?'—it's a natural defense mechanism in conversation.

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