Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What is a rhetorical question?

1. A question requiring a detailed response

2. A statement presented as a question

3. A question that expects no answer

4. A question posed to confuse the audience

The correct answer is: A question that expects no answer

A rhetorical question is defined as a question that is posed for effect rather than to elicit a direct answer. It is often used to make a point, provoke thought, or emphasize an idea. The speaker or writer generally does not expect an answer—rather, the intention is to engage the audience's mind and to encourage them to consider the implications of the question. For instance, in a speech about the importance of environmental conservation, a speaker might ask, "How long can we ignore the signs of climate change?" The underlying message emphasizes urgency and guilt, prompting the audience to reflect on their actions without requiring an explicit answer. Other choices suggest different purposes for a question, such as requiring a detailed response or confusing the audience, which does not align with the primary function of rhetorical questions.