Botkérdés

Botkérdés is a Hungarian term that translates to "stick question" or "stake question." It refers to a rhetorical question, often posed in a context where the answer is obvious or predetermined, designed to elicit a specific response or to highlight a particular point. The phrase implies that the question is almost a formality, as if one is planting a stake in the ground and asking if it is indeed a stake.

This type of question is frequently used in political discourse, debates, and informal discussions. It can be employed to assert a position, to challenge an opponent by forcing them to acknowledge an undeniable truth, or to persuade an audience by framing an issue in a way that leads them to a desired conclusion. The effectiveness of a botkérdés lies in its apparent simplicity and the presumed lack of alternative answers.

For example, a politician might ask, "Would anyone here deny that our economy needs improvement?" This question presupposes that economic improvement is a universally accepted goal, making it difficult for an opponent to disagree without appearing unreasonable. In essence, the botkérdés manipulates the conversational flow by pre-empting counterarguments and guiding the listener towards a specific line of thinking. While seemingly straightforward, its strategic use can be quite powerful in shaping perceptions and outcomes.