it is open to question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is open to question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something is uncertain or debatable, often in discussions or arguments. Example: "The validity of the study's findings is open to question, as the sample size was quite small."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It is open to question whether the cars will return to Las Vegas.

The New York Times - Sports

But it is open to question, even then, how many will have jobs worthy of the name (and pay).

The Economist

But it is open to question whether it works as well in the aftermath of an economic crisis which has created, albeit for the best of reasons, a massive deficit.

Independent

He has suggested a congruence between Christianity and European culture because both respect the individual; this implies that it is open to question, at best, whether Islam can bed down in Europe with equal success.

The Economist

The widely derided (including in this column) claims made by UK Oil & Gas for the "Gatwick Gusher" are being reassessed after test results, although whether it is commercially feasible to extract much of it is open to question.

Independent

It is open to question whether there is an actual difference between a short play and a skit, but it is certain that writers of short plays today approach the genre very much in this context.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Mr. Medina and two former board members now say that the city had not formally regarded St. Christopher's as a minority agency, and that it was "open to question" whether it was fair to group it with the others.

The New York Times

The nudge unit has been criticised as being ineffective in the past, with even policy minister Oliver Letwin admitting it was "open to question whether any of this would have any effect whatsoever".

The Guardian

Over at Picturehouses, Clare Binns says she'll be supporting Duncan Jones's Moon, though it's open to question how much of a risk that is; the film is backed by Sony.

The Guardian - Film

If, on the other hand, you have a ballot where most of the other contests are punched through, well, then it's open to question about whether the dimple should be counted".

The New York Times

Her tender, determined performance in the latter as Gerda Wegener, the conflicted wife of pioneering transgender painter Lili Elbe, is widely expected to earn Vikander her first Oscar nomination – yet it's open to question whether it's even her best work of the year.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is open to question", ensure that the context clearly identifies what specific aspect is being questioned. This prevents ambiguity and enhances the clarity of your statement.

Common error

While "it is open to question" is a valid phrase, avoid using it repetitively in your writing. Vary your expressions by incorporating synonyms like "it is debatable" or "it is uncertain" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is open to question" functions as an evaluative expression, indicating that a particular matter is uncertain, debatable, or not yet decided. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to introduce an element of doubt or skepticism regarding a claim or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

39%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is open to question" is a versatile phrase used to express uncertainty or doubt. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, including News & Media and Scientific publications. While synonyms like "it is debatable" and "it is questionable" offer alternatives, mastering the appropriate use of "it is open to question" enhances clarity and precision in both writing and speech. Remember to ensure the context clearly specifies what is being questioned and avoid overuse for stylistic purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is debatable

Focuses on the idea that the issue is subject to argument and different opinions.

it is questionable

Highlights the uncertainty or doubt surrounding the topic.

it is uncertain

Emphasizes the lack of clarity or predictability.

it is doubtful

Suggests a low probability or a strong sense of disbelief.

the matter is unresolved

Indicates that the issue has not been settled or decided.

the point is arguable

Stresses that the assertion can be challenged or contested.

it remains to be seen

Implies that the outcome is still unknown and will only be revealed in the future.

it is not clear

Highlights the ambiguity or lack of understanding.

there is some doubt

Indicates the presence of uncertainty or skepticism.

the issue is up for debate

Signifies that the topic is currently being discussed and considered from different perspectives.

FAQs

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

Use "it is open to question" to express uncertainty or doubt about something. For instance, "Whether the new policy will succeed "it is open to question", given the previous failures."

What can I say instead of "it is open to question"?

You can use alternatives like "it is debatable", "it is questionable", or "it is uncertain depending on the context.

Which is correct, "it is open to question" or "it is opened to question"?

"It is open to question" is the correct form. "Opened" implies that something was previously closed but is now available, which doesn't align with the intended meaning of expressing doubt or uncertainty.

What's the difference between "it is open to question" and "it is a question of"?

"It is open to question" means something is uncertain or debatable, while "it is a question of" implies something depends on a specific factor or condition. For example, "It is a question of resources" means success depends on resources.