is open to question

USAGE SUMMARY

"is open to question" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express doubt about something or to call something into question. For example, "The authenticity of the document is open to question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Exactly how "lite" is open to question.

Independent

The projection is open to question.

The Guardian

Now Andersen's backbone is open to question.

The New York Times

The audience's focus is open to question.

The New York Times - Arts

"Whether that is still the case is open to question.

Independent

Whether she thereby sold more clothes is open to question.

The New Yorker

Whether any copyright was breached is open to question.

Independent

The structure of the calpulli is open to question.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Whether BP's new approach will succeed is open to question.

The New York Times

Whether Boyle will go global is open to question.

Independent

But his footsoldiers' morale is open to question.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is open to question" when you want to express that a statement, fact, or idea is not definitively settled and requires further examination or consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "is open to question" excessively in casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "I doubt it" or "that's not certain" might be more appropriate in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is open to question" functions as an evaluative expression, used to indicate that a particular statement, fact, or belief is uncertain or contestable. It serves to introduce an element of doubt or skepticism. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is open to question" is a versatile phrase used to express doubt or invite further examination of a statement or idea. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in formal contexts such as news reporting and academic discussions. While it might sound overly formal in casual settings, its primary function is to politely introduce uncertainty and encourage further inquiry. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, its strength lies in its ability to express doubt without direct confrontation, making it a valuable tool in reasoned discourse. Alternatives such as "is debatable" or "is questionable" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is questionable

Suggests that there are reasons to doubt or challenge the validity of something.

is debatable

Focuses on the aspect of being arguable or subject to differing opinions.

is doubtful

Emphasizes the uncertainty or lack of confidence in the matter.

is up for debate

Similar to 'is debatable' but emphasizes the invitation for discussion.

is uncertain

Highlights the lack of definiteness or predictability.

is subject to doubt

Directly expresses that the matter is not certain and can be doubted.

is in dispute

Highlights that there is disagreement or contention surrounding the matter.

is under scrutiny

Indicates that something is being carefully examined and evaluated.

remains unresolved

Emphasizes the lack of a definitive answer or solution.

begs the question

This phrase is more formal and suggests that the matter raises a fundamental question that needs to be addressed.

FAQs

How can I use "is open to question" in a sentence?

You can use "is open to question" to express uncertainty or doubt about a statement. For instance, "The accuracy of his claims "is open to question"" suggests that his claims may not be entirely accurate.

What is a more formal alternative to "is open to question"?

A more formal alternative would be "is subject to scrutiny". Other options include "is debatable" or "is questionable" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "is open to question" and "is questionable"?

While similar, "is open to question" implies more of an invitation for discussion or further investigation, whereas "is questionable" suggests that there are already reasons to doubt something.

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

It's appropriate to use "is open to question" when you want to politely express doubt or uncertainty, especially in formal writing or discussions. It's useful when you don't want to directly contradict someone but want to indicate that further inquiry is needed.