always in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "always in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is consistently being debated or doubted. Example: "The effectiveness of the new policy is always in question among the staff."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

David Wells, 39, has been solid, but the health of his back is always in question.

The New York Times - Sports

Tacheles's fate was always in question — its occupants were squatters, with no firm legal claim to the property.

The New York Times

To be specific, it was the colour of the cover that was always in question, not the subject matter.

The Guardian - Books

Marcus Camby, who averaged 7.8 rebounds last season, could be the answer, but his durability, particularly if he has to play center, is always in question.

The New York Times - Sports

Staged photography and the widespread use of digitisation have meant that what was once assumed to be real is now always in question.

The Guardian - Arts

Most knew the area had a rich history, having found coins and bits of pottery over the years, but the exact location of the ancient city was always in question.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Their independence from the police has always been in question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Because he collaborated on so many ventures, the division of authorship has always been in question.

The New York Times - Books

"However I say to my elders, that the last bit may not always apply in question time".

The Guardian

All of which has surely reinforced some lingering doubts about a man whose discipline and organizational skills have always been in question.

The New York Times - Magazine

In addition to the hundreds of thousands known to have been killed and wounded in this conflict, the fate of thousands of political prisoners who disappeared into regime prisons has always remained in question.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "always in question" to emphasize a persistent state of uncertainty or doubt regarding a particular subject. It is effective when highlighting issues that are consistently debated or lack definitive resolution.

Common error

Avoid using "always in question" in every instance of uncertainty. Vary your language with alternatives like "often debated" or "frequently challenged" to prevent repetitive writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "always in question" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun's state or quality is consistently uncertain or doubtful. Ludwig AI examples show this usage in diverse contexts, from health concerns to the authenticity of images.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "always in question" serves to highlight enduring uncertainty or doubt regarding a subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage in diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, writers should avoid overuse by exploring alternatives such as "often debated" or "frequently challenged". This analysis offers practical guidance for leveraging the phrase effectively, preventing common errors, and understanding its semantic nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perpetually uncertain

Emphasizes the continuous state of uncertainty.

constantly doubted

Highlights the persistent doubt surrounding the subject.

continually debated

Focuses on the ongoing discussion and disagreement.

frequently challenged

Suggests that the subject is often disputed or contested.

never certain

Simple and direct expression of a lack of certainty.

under constant scrutiny

Highlights the ongoing examination and potential criticism.

subject to ongoing debate

Similar to "continually debated" but more formal.

liable to be questioned

Indicates a predisposition to being doubted or challenged.

its validity is debated

This focuses more on the question of how valid something is.

forever unresolved

Suggests the issue remains open and disputed indefinitely.

FAQs

How can I use "always in question" in a sentence?

You can use "always in question" to indicate that something is consistently doubted or debated. For instance, "The safety of the old bridge is "always in question" after each major storm."

What phrases are similar to "always in question"?

Alternatives include "constantly doubted", "continually debated", or "frequently challenged", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "always in question" in formal writing?

Yes, "always in question" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing ongoing debates or uncertainties. However, ensure that the context warrants such a direct expression of doubt.

What's the difference between "always in question" and "sometimes in question"?

"Always in question" implies consistent and continuous doubt, while "sometimes in question" indicates that the doubt or uncertainty arises only occasionally. The choice depends on the frequency with which the subject is questioned.