the question as to whether

Linguistic Reminder

(This reminder is available in English only.)

Problem

The expression the question as to whether is wordy.

Solution

To write plainly and concisely, opt for whether instead.

Examples

The following table shows a more concise usage to replace the question as to whether.

Wordy Concise

The question as to whether there is a surplus remains a hotly debated topic.

Whether there is a surplus remains a hotly debated topic.

The members will vote on the question as to whether they should strike.

The members will vote on whether they should strike.

Related link

"Putting It Plainly" (Frances Peck, Language Update, Vol. 2, No. 4, 2005)

Linguistic Recommendation reference number

REM-1/2007-04

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the question as to whether (REM‑1/2007‑04) - Comments

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