alternative question

American  

noun

Grammar.

1. a question that offers the listener a choice of two or more alternatives and is characterized by rising intonation on each alternative except for the final one, which has falling intonation, as Would you like coffee, tea, or soda?

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Example Sentences

It’s far preferable to the alternative question that threatened to dominate early camp: If and when Metcalf is going to show up.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 28, 2022

Such an alternative question, answered either way, leads the prospect through the stage of favorable decision and implies his committal to acceptance of the services offered.

From Certain Success by Hawkins, Norval A.

The alternative question, or the question that simply allows the choice between two suggested possibilities is also fruitless so far as demanding thought is concerned.

From How to Teach Religion Principles and Methods by Betts, George Herbert