out of the question

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Meaning of "out of the question"

Meaning

The phrase 'out of the question' is an idiom that is used to indicate that something is not a possibility, or that it is not allowed or permitted. It conveys a sense of finality, or that the answer is a definite 'no'. It is often used as a polite way of refusing a request or suggestion.

Etymology

The phrase 'out of the question' is thought to have originated in the late 17th century. It is derived from the Middle French phrase 'hors de question', which means 'beyond dispute'. The phrase was first used in English in the early 18th century and has been in popular use ever since.

Usage

The phrase 'out of the question' is most commonly used as a response to a question or suggestion. It is usually used to politely and firmly reject something, or to indicate that something is not a possibility. It can also be used to express surprise or disbelief. For example, if someone were to suggest that they could fly a plane, the response could be 'That's out of the question'.

Example Sentences

• I was hoping you could lend me some money, but I guess that's out of the question.
• Do you think I could get the job done by tomorrow? - That's out of the question; you'll need more time than that.
• You want me to move to the other side of the country? That's out of the question!

The Global Spread of English Idioms

As English has become a global language, its idioms have spread far beyond the borders of the UK and USA. For instance, the idiom "beat around the bush" has equivalents in many other languages, such as "tourner autour du pot" in French and "dar vueltas al asunto" in Spanish. Meanwhile, other idioms have been adapted for local contexts, such as the Russian idiom "?? ???? ???????" (ne svoya rubashka), which translates to "not one's own shirt," meaning to be in an uncomfortable or unfamiliar situation.