a questionable attitude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a questionable attitude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's mindset or behavior that raises doubts or concerns about its appropriateness or morality. Example: "His refusal to cooperate with the team reflects a questionable attitude that could hinder our progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He had just been recalled from Class AAA Las Vegas, ending what for all intents and purposes was a 60-game banishment for a questionable attitude.

The New York Times - Sports

Here are five bad contracts worth expunging: GILBERT ARENAS Point guard, Magic 3 YEARS, $62.4 MILLION Bad knees, diminished skills and a questionable attitude are a bad combination.

The New York Times

Unlike Ruud Gullit's rejection by Arsenal as a teenager  and Sheffield Wednesday's reluctance to offer Eric Cantona a contract, it had nothing to with ability, the perceived lack of it - or indeed a questionable attitude.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's built on casual sexism, eye-rolling double entendres, a highly questionable attitude to sexual consent ("Don't you struggle/ Don't you fight/ Don't you worry/ Cos it's your turn tonight") a penchant for firearms, and a crass celebration of the unthinking macho hedonism that killed the band's original singer.

The Guardian - Music

A similar questionable attitude is represented by the increasing use of symptoms control, toxicity or performance status as surrogate end points of quality of life, whereas the actual assessment of quality of life remains a neglected end point in clinical research.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

There's Just for Tonight, on which Migos collaborate with the enchanting Chris Brown, presumably after a lengthy search to find someone with an even more questionable attitude to women than them:."You know you the bomb / I'mma call you Saddam," offers Quavo at one point, perhaps the only man in history to think you can compliment a lady by comparing her to the late Iraqi dictator.

The Guardian - Music

Kemp's weight problems, bloated contract and questionable attitude made him unwelcome in Cleveland.

The New York Times - Sports

Once a borderline star known for his strength, athleticism and high-flying dunks, Martin now inspires wary glances over his temper and his questionable attitude.

The New York Times - Sports

His breakthrough season, when he starred under David Moyes in the ill-fated 2013-14 campaign, offered no hint of the questionable attitude that has since stunted his progress.

The Guardian - Sport

It was also in financial terms that Renato exposed his questionable attitude towards women's rights.

Vice

Just like tourists of the 1960s knew London for its red phone boxes and questionable attitude towards the Irish, London-bound Americans now have Will's bookshop and Bridget Jones' Borough flat at the top of their itemised itineraries.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: "a questionable attitude" might be acceptable or even necessary in certain situations, such as when critically evaluating harmful ideologies.

Common error

Avoid using "a questionable attitude" as a standalone criticism without explaining what makes the attitude problematic. Always clarify the specific behaviors or beliefs that justify the assessment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a questionable attitude" functions primarily as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to describe the nature or quality of the "attitude," indicating that it is doubtful, dubious, or raises concerns. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through examples found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a questionable attitude" is a phrase used to describe a mindset or behavior that raises doubts or concerns. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used to express disapproval or doubt. While the phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When using the phrase, providing specific examples or observations is advisable to add credibility and clarity. Alternatives such as "dubious demeanor" or "problematic outlook" can be employed to convey similar meanings with nuanced emphasis. Although considered correct, it's essential to be context-aware and specific when attributing such an attitude to someone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a dubious demeanor

Emphasizes outward behavior and its questionable nature rather than the underlying attitude.

a problematic outlook

Focuses on the mindset or perspective being the source of concern.

an objectionable disposition

Highlights the unpleasant or offensive nature of the person's general character.

a suspect temperament

Indicates that the person's emotional state or habitual way of reacting is regarded with distrust.

a worrying approach

Suggests the method or manner of dealing with something is causing concern.

an unsettling manner

Focuses on the behavior being disruptive or disturbing.

a cynical perspective

Highlights a negative and distrustful viewpoint as the issue.

a pessimistic stance

Emphasizes a belief that negative outcomes are more likely.

an unfavorable mindset

Focuses on the negative or unhelpful nature of someone's thoughts and beliefs.

a troublesome spirit

Indicates a propensity for causing difficulties or unrest.

FAQs

How can I use "a questionable attitude" in a sentence?

You can use "a questionable attitude" to describe someone's behavior or mindset that raises doubts or concerns. For example, "His frequent absences and lack of engagement suggest "a questionable attitude" towards his responsibilities."

What are some alternatives to "a questionable attitude"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "dubious demeanor", "problematic outlook", or "objectionable disposition".

Is it always negative to have "a questionable attitude"?

While generally negative, having what some might call ""a questionable attitude"" can be valuable in critically assessing harmful ideologies or challenging the status quo. It depends on the situation and what the attitude is questioning.

How can I identify "a questionable attitude" in someone else?

Look for behaviors that deviate from expected norms, express cynicism or distrust without reason, or disregard ethical guidelines. Identifying ""a questionable attitude"" requires careful observation and consideration of the context.