beg the question {v. phr.}, {literary}
To accept as true something that is still being argued about, before it is proved true; avoid or not answer a question or problem.
The girls asked Miss Smith if they should wear formal dresses to the party; Miss Smith said they were begging the question because they didn't know yet if they could get permission for a party.
Laura told Tom that he must believe her argument because she was right. Father laughed and told Laura she was begging the question.
Compare: TAKE FOR GRANTED. Categories: {literary} {v. phr.}