it is questionable

USAGE SUMMARY

'It is questionable' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when there is some doubt or uncertainty about a certain matter or opinion. For example, "It is questionable whether the new tax policy will have any positive effect on the economy."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I think it is questionable".

The Guardian

But it is questionable public policy.

The New York Times

So it is questionable how far S.&P.

The New York Times

Thus it is questionable whether these generalizations are valid.

Biotechnology Advances

It is questionable whether that is the case with Americans.

Independent

But it is questionable whether this represents progress.

The Washington Post

It is questionable whether Sprewell wanted to attend camp.

The New York Times - Sports

Now it is questionable if he will play at all.

The New York Times - Sports

It is questionable whether there will be any security improvements.

The Guardian

Furthermore, it is questionable whether the limited ELL material that does exist is distributed equitably.

Stanford University

It is questionable, however, whether survey techniques can be better designed to encourage values clarification.

Journal of Economic Psychology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is questionable" to introduce a balanced perspective when presenting information. This acknowledges potential weaknesses or alternative interpretations without outright dismissal.

Common error

Avoid using "it is questionable" to weaken statements that require a firm stance. Reserve it for scenarios where genuine uncertainty or debate exists, as overuse can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is questionable" functions as an evaluative expression. It introduces an element of doubt or uncertainty regarding a claim, suggestion, or proposed action. As shown by Ludwig, it is a grammatically sound way to express a lack of confidence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

31%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is questionable" is a versatile phrase used to introduce doubt, uncertainty, or skepticism into a discussion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its high frequency in scientific, news, and academic sources underscores its value in formal contexts. When writing, use it judiciously to maintain a balanced and objective tone, and consider alternatives like "it is doubtful" or "it is uncertain" to add nuance to your expression. It's also essential to avoid overuse in declarative statements to maintain credibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is doubtful

This alternative is more direct in expressing doubt.

it is uncertain

This alternative emphasizes a lack of certainty about something.

it is debatable

This alternative highlights that something is open to argument or discussion.

it is arguable

This alternative suggests that a case can be made, but it may not be conclusive.

it is contestable

This alternative indicates that something can be disputed or challenged.

it is dubious

This alternative implies suspicion or mistrust regarding something.

it is suspect

This alternative suggests that something is not genuine or reliable.

it is implausible

This alternative suggests the idea is unlikely to be true.

it is problematic

This alternative focuses on the difficulties or issues associated with something.

it is unproven

This alternative highlights that something has not been demonstrated or verified.

FAQs

How to use "it is questionable" in a sentence?

Use "it is questionable" to introduce doubt or uncertainty about a statement, theory, or action. For example, "It is questionable whether this approach will yield the desired results."

What can I say instead of "it is questionable"?

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

Which is correct, "it is questionable" or "is it questionable"?

"It is questionable" is a statement expressing doubt, while "Is it questionable?" is a question seeking confirmation or denial of a doubt.

What's the difference between "it is questionable" and "it is doubtful"?

"It is questionable" suggests a more open consideration of possibilities, while "it is doubtful" implies a stronger leaning towards disbelief or uncertainty.