过问 is a verb meaning 'to inquire into' or 'to interfere (in someone else's affairs)'. Literally, 过 means 'to pass' or 'to go beyond', and 问 means 'to ask' or 'to inquire'. Together, they suggest going beyond one's usual role to ask about or become involved in a matter — often implying an unwarranted or authoritative intervention. It carries a slightly formal or critical tone, especially when used to describe unsolicited involvement.

This word is commonly used in contexts involving authority, family dynamics, workplace oversight, or social boundaries. It can be neutral when describing legitimate concern (e.g., a teacher over a student’s well-being), but often implies overstepping — for instance, a neighbor commenting on how another person raises their children. It usually takes a direct object (e.g., 过问这件事) and rarely appears without one. The verb does not take aspect particles like 了 or 过 easily unless the context strongly emphasizes completed interference.