quaestionem

Quaestionem is the accusative singular form of the Latin noun quaestio, meaning the question, inquiry, or matter under consideration. In classical and medieval Latin, quaestio denotes a topic for discussion, a problem to be solved, or a formal inquiry, and it frequently appears as the direct object of verbs such as proponere, habere, or examinare.

Etymology and form: quaestionem derives from quaestio, itself from the verb quaerere “to seek” or “to ask.” The noun belongs to the third declension feminine, with the standard accusative singular ending -em and plural quaestiones. The term is used in various compounds and phrases, including expressions like quaestionem proponere or in quaestionem venire.

Historical usage: In classical texts, quaestio often referred to a judicial inquiry or a problem in philosophy or rhetoric. In legal, political, and philosophical contexts, it could denote a formal inquiry or issue under consideration. In medieval and early modern scholasticism, the related plural quaestiones disputatae became a central format for teaching and debate, consisting of a set of questions posed for disputation and analysis.

Modern usage: Quaestionem is seldom employed outside Latin texts or quotations in contemporary writing. When encountered in academic works, it typically appears in quotations or discussions of Latin grammar, rhetoric, or medieval scholastic practice, rather than as a live term in modern languages.

See also: quaestio, quaestiones disputatae, Latin grammar, scholastic method.