LOADED QUESTION Meaning and
Definition
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A loaded question is a type of interrogative statement intentionally designed to manipulate or influence the respondent by employing manipulative or provocative language. It is a question that contains a controversial or unfair presupposition or assumption, often leading the person being questioned to a particular answer or outcome.
Characterized by its innate bias, a loaded question insinuates an assumption or opinion through its wording, making it difficult for the respondent to answer without being forced into a specific viewpoint or implied judgment. This technique is often used in debate, psychological manipulation, or argumentative scenarios to push someone into a predicament where their response may be used against them.
By posing a loaded question, the questioner can potentially direct the conversation towards their desired agenda or outcome, ultimately influencing the narrative. This form of questioning can be deceptive, as it manipulates the respondent's perception, limiting their ability to provide an unbiased or freely chosen response.
Effective communication relies on the use of open, unbiased questions that allow individuals to express their thoughts and beliefs without feeling coerced or imposed upon. Recognizing loaded questions is important in order to maintain fairness, objectivity, and respect in communication, ensuring participants have the freedom to express themselves without being forced into predetermined responses.
Common Misspellings for LOADED QUESTION
- koaded question
- poaded question
- ooaded question
- liaded question
- lkaded question
- lladed question
- lpaded question
- l0aded question
- l9aded question
- lozded question
- losded question
- lowded question
- loqded question
- loased question
- loaxed question
- loaced question
- loafed question
- loared question
- loaeed question
- loadwd question
Etymology of LOADED QUESTION
The term "loaded question" originated in the early 20th century. Its etymology can be understood by breaking down the phrase into its individual components.
1. Loaded: In this context, "loaded" means that something has been filled or weighted down with a specific quality, often with the intention of influencing or manipulating a situation or response. The term "loaded" is derived from Old English "gelād" or Middle English "lāden", which both mean "to load" or "to burden".
2. Question: The word "question" comes from the Latin word "quaestiō", which means "a seeking" or "an inquiry". It entered English through Old French and has been used since the 14th century to refer to an interrogative sentence or a request for information.
