it raised eyebrows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it raised eyebrows" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has caused surprise, shock, or disapproval among people. Example: "The company's decision to cut employee benefits raised eyebrows among the staff, leading to widespread concern and discontent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

It raised eyebrows when it moved its headquarters from London to Geneva in March 2012, and in November 2012, following a supreme court ruling, the company was ordered to hand over to the Rugby Football Union the names and addresses of people who sold-on tickets to England rugby matches via its website.

The Guardian - Money

It raised eyebrows, too.

The New York Times

The timing of it raised eyebrows.

The New York Times - Sports

When Cutler was sidelined by a hit that nobody could immediately pinpoint, it raised eyebrows.

The New York Times - Sports

"It raised eyebrows, but it did humanize them and helped people relate to them.

The New York Times

"It raised eyebrows," Mr. Heggie noted, but "people who knew us understood completely".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

"It certainly smacks of the need for transparency because on its face, it raises eyebrows," Little said.

Los Angeles Times

"Unfortunately, when you get down, 1-0, in a series, it raises eyebrows.

The New York Times - Sports

So when a footballer speaks honestly and free of cliché, it raises eyebrows.

The Guardian - Sport

No longer does it raise eyebrows, for instance, when an academic composer writes a detailed programmatic work.

The New York Times - Arts

"When the S.E.C. upticks to formal from informal it raises eyebrows about the possibility of reckless behavior".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it raised eyebrows" to subtly indicate that an action or statement was perceived negatively or unconventionally, without being overly critical. This phrase is suitable when you want to suggest mild disapproval or surprise rather than strong condemnation.

Common error

Avoid using "it raised eyebrows" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. While acceptable in many contexts, opt for more precise and professional language when describing critical issues to maintain a serious and objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it raised eyebrows" functions as an idiomatic expression. It serves to indicate that a particular action, statement, or event caused surprise, skepticism, or disapproval among people. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

2%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it raised eyebrows" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey surprise, skepticism, or disapproval. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it strikes a neutral tone, suitable for implying public sentiment without explicit judgment. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and offers alternative phrases such as "it caused surprise" or "it drew criticism". While generally acceptable, avoiding overuse in highly formal writing ensures a professional and objective tone. The phrase subtly suggests a negative or unconventional perception, making it a valuable tool for nuanced communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it caused surprise

Replaces "raised eyebrows" with a more direct expression of surprise.

it was met with skepticism

Specifically indicates a lack of belief or doubt.

it generated disbelief

Highlights the incredulous reaction to the event.

it prompted questions

Focuses on the inquisitive reaction rather than the emotional one.

it was considered unusual

Indicates that the subject was out of the ordinary or unexpected.

it drew criticism

Highlights the negative reaction or disapproval.

it stirred unease

Indicates that the subject caused discomfort or anxiety.

it was frowned upon

Emphasizes disapproval, often in a social context.

it sparked controversy

Emphasizes a more significant and public disagreement.

it caused consternation

Suggests a reaction of anxiety or dismay.

FAQs

What does the phrase "it raised eyebrows" mean?

The phrase "it raised eyebrows" means that something caused surprise, shock, or disapproval. It suggests that people reacted with skepticism or found something questionable.

How can I use "it raised eyebrows" in a sentence?

You can use "it raised eyebrows" to describe an event or action that caused a stir. For example, "The company's decision to cut employee benefits "it raised eyebrows" among the staff, leading to widespread concern."

What can I say instead of "it raised eyebrows"?

You can use alternatives like "it caused surprise", "it prompted questions", or "it drew criticism" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it raised eyebrows" formal or informal?

"It raised eyebrows" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in various contexts, including news reporting and general writing. However, it might be too informal for highly academic or very formal business communications. Consider using more direct language like "it drew criticism" or "it sparked controversy" in those situations.