he questioned that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he questioned that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase when someone has asked a question or has some doubts about something. For example: "He questioned that the new policy would be effective in the long run."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The officer seemed to have only a sketchy recollection of other people he questioned that night, but he remembered Mr. Muhammad vividly.

The New York Times

When he questioned that claim, she backed down, but only slightly.

Huffington Post

He questioned that the Enterprise could be traveling years from any source of light and yet still be fully illuminated.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

When he was questioned, that was the turning point.

Independent

When Mr. Williams questioned that decision, he said he was reprimanded.

The New York Times

But, Dr. Hrobjartsson said, he questions that effect.

The New York Times

HENRY ROBINSON Guilford, Conn., June 2, 2013 To the Editor: Gregory Currie asks for psychological studies to support a thesis that he questions: that fiction civilizes us.

The New York Times

Does he ever question that impulse in himself?

The Guardian - Arts

I would question that," he says.

The Guardian - Film

So he dutifully questioned that patient about her cure.

The New York Times

But he questioned how big that role is.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he questioned that", ensure that the context clearly indicates what "that" refers to. Using a specific noun phrase instead of "that" can improve clarity.

Common error

A common mistake is to use "he questioned that" without clearly establishing what "that" refers to in the preceding context. This can lead to ambiguity. Always ensure "that" has a clear and immediate referent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he questioned that" functions as a reported statement expressing doubt or inquiry. Ludwig AI indicates its grammatical correctness. It usually follows an assertion, presenting a contrasting viewpoint.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he questioned that" is grammatically correct, albeit relatively rare. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, noting its role in expressing doubt or seeking clarification about a prior statement. While predominantly found in news and media contexts, it also appears in academic and general discussions. To enhance clarity, ensure that "that" has a clear referent. Consider using more formal alternatives like "he expressed reservations about that" or "he challenged that" in professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he cast doubt on that

Focuses on expressing skepticism or uncertainty about something.

he raised questions about that

Highlights the act of bringing up doubts or uncertainties.

he expressed reservations about that

Highlights the expression of concerns or hesitations regarding something.

he took issue with that

Focuses on disagreeing with or objecting to a particular point.

he disputed that

Similar to challenging, but with a stronger sense of formal disagreement.

he challenged that

Indicates a direct confrontation or dispute of a statement or idea.

he debated that

Indicates a formal discussion or argument about something.

he inquired about that

Emphasizes the act of asking for more information about something.

he scrutinized that

Implies a careful and critical examination of something.

he probed that

Suggests a thorough investigation or examination of something.

FAQs

How can I use "he questioned that" in a sentence?

Use "he questioned that" to express doubt or inquiry about a previous statement or action. For example, "The witness stated the defendant was at the scene, but "he questioned that", citing conflicting evidence."

What's a more formal alternative to "he questioned that"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "he expressed reservations about that" or "he challenged that", which convey skepticism with greater precision.

Is it always clear what "that" refers to when using "he questioned that"?

No, it's crucial to ensure the reference of "that" is unambiguous. If not, rephrase to specify what he questioned. For instance, instead of "He presented the findings, but he questioned that", use "He presented the findings, but he questioned the methodology."

How does "he questioned that" differ from "he asked about that"?

"He asked about that" implies seeking information, whereas ""he questioned that"" suggests doubt or disagreement. The former is neutral, while the latter implies a critical stance.