previous question

noun

, Parliamentary Procedure.

a move that a vote be taken at once on a main question, used especially as a means of cutting off further debate.

previous question

(in the House of Commons) a motion to drop the present topic under debate, put in order to prevent a vote
(in the House of Lords and US legislative bodies) a motion to vote on a bill or other question without delay

First recorded in 1690–1700

It just hit me your previous question was sort of a backhanded compliment.

The general feeling was such that the previous question was carried without a division.

On a division the previous question was carried by a large majority; and the original motion being put, was negatived.

On this ground the previous question was moved and carried by 193 to 146, the largest minority in the present session.

I therefore call for the previous question and ask that the election of officers proceed.

Mr Ross—I was recognized by the Chair and the previous question has not yet been voted upon.

April 19, 2024tortuous

[tawr-choo-uhs ]

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