capacity to question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "capacity to question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's ability or potential to inquire, challenge, or seek understanding about a topic or situation. Example: "A strong capacity to question is essential for critical thinking and effective problem-solving."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

It has that capacity to question, to challenge, to inspire in any country in the world," he said.

The Guardian

But although my generation may have been bred on quick-fix fashion, we also have a great capacity to question it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Sometimes, we are told, people's vulnerability is such that their desire to believe a deceiver's hopeful message overrides their capacity to question it.

Independent

All brazen self-assurance, whether consumed by the overzealous prosecutor or the adventurous statesman, the Bible-thumping preacher or the arrogant intellectual -- all of it is blind to the human capacity to question and doubt.

The New York Times

They watched teachers imparting techniques and introducing students to the world of the visual arts, and saw certain cognitive "dispositions" being elicited by the interactions: persistence in tackling problems, observational acuity, expressive clarity, reflective capacity to question and judge, ability to envision alternative possibilities and openness to exploration.

The New York Times - Magazine

During a period of such enormous shifting, do we really want to lose our capacity to question, analyze and criticize?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

He did note there will be safeguards for minors that will limit the "capacity of police to question or deal with minors in a way which is regarded given the age of the person to be unreasonable".

Vice

Design aside, you've got to question the capacity.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And I think the public has a right to question its capacity to deliver disaster relief".

The New York Times

When Barr came before the Senate Judiciary Committee this week, Democrats seized on his memo to question his capacity to oversee the special counsel's investigation fairly.

The Washington Post

Regarding the article concerning Marine Corps reservists' 10-mile training hike through Irvine and Newport Beach (June 27), the story was so embellished with terrifying adverbs and adjectives that it appeared the march route was populated with people whose mental capacity to comprehend is open to question.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "capacity to question" to emphasize a developed or inherent ability to critically analyze and challenge assumptions, rather than simply asking questions.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "capacity to question" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "ability to ask questions" or "tendency to inquire" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "capacity to question" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific attribute or capability. It signifies the ability to critically analyze, challenge, and inquire. Ludwig AI indicates that this expression is grammatically correct and usable across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "capacity to question" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon phrase that refers to the ability to critically analyze and challenge assumptions. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability, noting its prevalence in news, scientific, and academic contexts. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral to formal settings, where its emphasis on critical thinking and inquiry adds significant value. Remember to leverage simpler terms such as "ability to question" in more informal contexts. Enhance your own "capacity to question" by cultivating diverse perspectives and challenging conventional wisdom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ability to inquire

Focuses on the general skill of asking questions; less emphasis on challenging or probing.

potential for inquiry

Highlights the latent capability to investigate and seek information.

aptitude for questioning

Emphasizes a natural talent or inclination towards asking questions.

skill in interrogation

Specifically refers to the ability to ask detailed and probing questions, often in a formal setting.

talent for probing

Highlights the inherent ability to delve deeply into a subject through questioning.

critical thinking skills

Encompasses the broader cognitive abilities needed to analyze and evaluate information, of which questioning is a part.

investigative prowess

Refers to a demonstrated skill in conducting investigations, including effective questioning techniques.

analytical capability

Highlights the ability to analyze information deeply to identify and raise relevant questions.

intellectual curiosity

Focuses on the innate desire to learn and explore, which drives the act of questioning.

inquisitive nature

Emphasizes a personality trait characterized by a desire to ask questions and seek knowledge.

FAQs

How can I improve my "capacity to question"?

Cultivate critical thinking by actively seeking diverse perspectives, analyzing assumptions, and practicing reflective inquiry. Engage with complex topics and challenge conventional wisdom to sharpen your ability to formulate insightful questions.

What's the difference between "ability to question" and "capacity to question"?

"Ability to question" generally refers to the basic skill of asking questions, while "capacity to question" implies a more developed and inherent capability to critically analyze and challenge assumptions. Thus, you can replace "capacity to question" with "ability to question" if you want a neutral tone.

Is "capacity to question" formal or informal?

"Capacity to question" tends to be more formal and is often used in academic, professional, or analytical contexts. In informal settings, consider using simpler alternatives like "ability to ask questions".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "capacity to question"?

Use "capacity to question" when you want to emphasize a person's or group's developed ability to critically analyze information, challenge assumptions, and seek deeper understanding. This phrase is particularly fitting in discussions about critical thinking, innovation, and social progress.