it makes one question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it makes one question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that prompts doubt or curiosity about a particular topic or situation. Example: "The recent findings in the study are surprising; it makes one question the validity of previous research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mouthpiece devastates, and yet the message isn't being yelled through a megaphone, it makes one question one's own actions by seeing how they affect others.

Vice

Certainly it makes one question what constitutes a "great" film; though I don't really wish the experience of viewing "Compliance" on anybody, I also haven't stopped thinking about it.

Huffington Post

It makes one question why Congress or various state legislatures have failed to approve mental health parity health care coverage when society -- as well as those who act as spokespeople for it -- refuses to take schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bulimia and other illnesses seriously.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It is the Rays' October greenness that makes one question how well they can take Thursday's punch.

The New York Times - Sports

Her self-created alphabet of shapes floats across screen while an English translation spells out "RELENTLESS TENDERNESS," creating a soothing transitional space that makes one question the nature of the phrase as it drifts from screen to screen.

Vice

The 6.9% Q3 GDP print really just makes one question the veracity of both the Q2 and Q3 numbers.

The Guardian - Business

And this is what makes one question the sincerity of designers like Ms. Subkoff and Mr. Damhave of Imitation of Christ.

The New York Times - Style

The fact that some parents send their children to recover in the Hamptons after a prom makes one question the values with which we are imbuing our children.

The New York Times

Aside from this and the Ionic's built-in GPS, the differences between the two products are fairly minimal from the standpoint of feature sets, which honestly makes one question the wisdom of keeping the Ionic around — but Park tells me the company is committed to it.

TechCrunch

He makes one question the laws of nature.

Vice

His obvious prejudice makes one question his motives.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it makes one question" when you want to introduce a sense of doubt or uncertainty regarding a specific situation or statement. It is effective for prompting the reader to think critically.

Common error

Avoid using "it makes one question" in very casual conversation. While grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in informal settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it makes you wonder" or "it raises questions."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it makes one question" functions as an introductory clause that sets the stage for a query or expressing doubt. It presents something that causes reflection or invites scrutiny. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts ranging from personal actions to societal norms.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it makes one question" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that introduces doubt or encourages reflection. According to Ludwig, it appears frequently in news and media, scientific, and academic contexts. While grammatically sound, it leans towards a more formal register. When aiming for simplicity or casual tone, consider alternative options such as "it raises questions" or "it makes you wonder". This phrase prompts critical thinking and invites a deeper analysis of the subject matter.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it raises doubts

Focuses on instilling uncertainty rather than a direct question.

it causes one to wonder

Highlights a sense of amazement or curiosity.

it prompts inquiry

Emphasizes the initiation of an investigation or deeper examination.

it leads one to consider

Highlights the act of contemplation or deliberation.

it generates uncertainty

Focuses on producing a lack of sureness or confidence.

it gives rise to speculation

Suggests the phrase initiates conjecture or assumptions.

it incites scrutiny

Focuses on urging careful and critical examination.

it begs the question

Implies that an assumption is being made without proof.

it sparks debate

Emphasizes the arousal of discussion and differing opinions.

it instills apprehension

Highlights the feeling of anxiety or fear.

FAQs

How can I use "it makes one question" in a sentence?

You can use "it makes one question" to introduce a point of doubt or inquiry. For example, "The company's sudden change in policy makes one question their motives."

What are some alternatives to "it makes one question"?

Alternatives include "it raises questions", "it prompts inquiry", or "it causes one to wonder" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it makes you question" grammatically correct?

"It makes you question" is grammatically correct and more informal. "It makes one question" is also correct but carries a more formal tone.

What is the difference between "it makes one question" and "it makes you wonder"?

While both phrases introduce a sense of inquiry, "it makes one question" is more direct and formal, suggesting a specific issue to be examined. "It makes you wonder" is more general and less assertive, simply implying curiosity.