What is a compound question?

A compound question is another term for a double-barreled question, especially in a legal context. A compound question occurs when two or more questions are combined into one. For example, in a cross-examination, a lawyer might ask a suspect: “As you approached the intersection, did you look down, check your phone, and then look up and for the first time notice the oncoming car?” This type of question can mislead or confuse the person answering the question, and should be avoided.