be questioned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be questioned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something is subject to inquiry or examination. Example: "The validity of the research findings may be questioned by the scientific community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This cannot be questioned.

Independent

Their legacy cannot be questioned.

The New York Times

And you wouldn't be questioned?

The New York Times

Roosevelt's courage cannot be questioned.

The New York Times

Your allegiance will continue to be questioned?

The New York Times

Our sincerity and determination would be questioned.

The Economist

Senior management will be questioned, it added.

The New York Times

You will be questioned, a lot.

Independent

That needed to be questioned".

The Guardian - Arts

Everything needs to be questioned.

The Guardian

But Rahman doesn't like to be questioned.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be questioned", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the questioning and the basis for the inquiry. For example, "The data should be questioned if the collection methodology is flawed."

Common error

Avoid overusing the passive voice with "be questioned", as it can sometimes obscure responsibility. Instead of "The decision will be questioned", consider "Critics will question the decision" for a more direct and impactful statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be questioned" functions primarily as a passive voice construction, indicating that the subject is receiving the action of questioning. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests an inquiry or doubt regarding the subject's validity or accuracy. Examples show it used to express that a claim, decision, or idea is under scrutiny.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be questioned" is a common and grammatically sound construction used to express that something is subject to inquiry, doubt, or investigation. As Ludwig AI points out, its use is widespread in formal writing, news reporting, and academic contexts. While it is generally appropriate, it's essential to be mindful of the passive voice and to ensure clarity by specifying who is doing the questioning when relevant. Alternatives such as "be challenged" or "be investigated" can provide a more direct and active voice. The frequent use of "be questioned" across diverse sources underscores its importance in expressing scrutiny and critical evaluation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be doubted

Directly expresses uncertainty or disbelief about something.

be challenged

Focuses on the act of disputing or contesting something, highlighting a more direct confrontation.

be contested

Emphasizes that something is disputed or argued against.

be investigated

Implies a formal or systematic examination of something, often related to wrongdoing or a problem.

be scrutinized

Suggests a close and critical examination, often to detect flaws or errors.

be examined

Indicates a detailed inspection or analysis of something, often in a formal setting.

be probed

Suggests a thorough investigation, often to uncover hidden information.

be reviewed

Implies a formal assessment or evaluation of something.

be verified

Focuses on confirming the truth or accuracy of something, implying a need for validation.

be analyzed

Highlights the process of breaking down something into its component parts for detailed study.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be questioned" to sound more direct?

Consider using active voice constructions such as "challenge", "investigate", or "scrutinize" to make your writing more assertive and clear.

What does it mean when something is said to "be questioned"?

It indicates that the validity, accuracy, or appropriateness of something is being doubted or investigated. It suggests that further inquiry or examination is warranted.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "be questioned"?

The phrase is suitable in formal writing, news reporting, and academic discussions where a neutral and objective tone is required. It's often used when discussing issues that are under scrutiny or debate.

Is "be questioned" interchangeable with "be interrogated"?

While both phrases involve asking questions, "be interrogated" typically implies a more formal and intensive questioning, often in a legal or investigative context. "Be questioned" is broader and can refer to any situation where something is being examined or doubted.