The correct phrase is "begs the question", not "raises the question". In the former, someone is making a conclusion based on an unjustified assumption. In the latter, someone is simply inquiring to gain more information. Can we please stop using the wrong phrase?

I am sick and tired of seeing the misuse of the phrase "raises the question." As the very first comment in this post demonstrates, "raises the question" is about making an inquiry. Meanwhile "begs the question" specifically means making a conclusion on an unjustified assumption. It is exhausting to see this phrase misused on a daily basis in the media. I have lost count of how many times I have seen it misused on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, and NPR. It is also used incorrectly in common discourse, in schools, and even in academic settings.<br><br>Correct example of "raises the question": Why did I get a parking ticket? I thought I paid my fee correctly. *raises the question* Did the machine malfunction, or did the ticketing officer make a mistake?<br><br>Incorrect example of "raises the question": It is very cold outside, so global warming must be a hoax. *raises the question* Does the media control everyone's common sense, or are we just genetically predisposed to be fucking stupid?<br><br>Correct example of "begs the question": It is very cold outside, so global warming must be a hoax. *begs the question* Does the media control everyone's common sense, or are we just genetically predisposed to be fucking stupid?<br><br>Incorrect example of "begs the question": Why did I get a parking ticket? I thought I paid my fee correctly. *begs the question* Did the machine malfunction, or did the ticketing officer make a mistake?<br><br>TL;DR: "Begs the question" is a phrase that is used to describe making a conclusion based on an unjustified assumption. "Raises the question" is a phrase that is used to describe making an inquiry.