A rhetorical question is a figure of speech in the form of a question that is asked in order to make a point, rather than to elicit an answer. Though classically stated as a proper question, such a rhetorical device may be posed declaratively by implying a question, and therefore may not always require a question mark when written. Though a rhetorical question does not require a direct answer, in many cases it may be intended to start a discussion or at least draw an acknowledgement that the listener understands the intended message. A common example is the question “Can’t you do anything right?” This question, when posed, is intended not to ask about the listener’s abilities, but rather to insinuate a lack of the listener’s abilities. Although sometimes amusing and even humorous, rhetorical questions are rarely meant for pure, comedic effect.