might raise eyebrows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "might raise eyebrows" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something may cause surprise, skepticism, or disapproval among people. Example: "The company's decision to cut employee benefits might raise eyebrows among the staff."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

Yet, some of the banks' practices might raise eyebrows today.

The New York Times

Justice Stone clearly suspected that these tangled relationships might raise eyebrows.

The New York Times

But some of the gifts Lincoln did not decline might raise eyebrows today.

The New York Times

If you're willing to dig deep for the custom-written papers, you might raise eyebrows.

The New York Times - Books

As a reflection of reality, the "health and safety" aspects might raise eyebrows.

The Guardian - Books

And "world capital of revolution" might raise eyebrows in Paris or St Petersburg.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Thailand's campaigns might not raise eyebrows in the West.

The New York Times

While the move might raise some eyebrows -- backpacks! cellphones! loud voices!

The New York Times

While it might raise some eyebrows in most of America, it is perfectly legal in Wisconsin.

The New York Times

We'd been told that having an Israeli photographer might raise some eyebrows.

The New York Times - Magazine

Given Miller's tendency towards glossy magazine prose, James scholars might raise their eyebrows at such a comparison.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "might raise eyebrows" to subtly indicate that an action or statement could be perceived negatively without directly criticizing it. This is particularly useful in professional or neutral contexts where diplomacy is important.

Common error

Avoid using "might raise eyebrows" too frequently in your writing. While appropriate in many contexts, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive or hesitant. Vary your language by using synonyms like "could cause concern" or "may be frowned upon" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "might raise eyebrows" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that something is likely to cause surprise, skepticism, or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

17%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "might raise eyebrows" is a common idiomatic expression used to suggest that something could cause surprise, skepticism, or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically sound and usable. Predominantly found in news and media sources, it serves to softly caution against potentially controversial actions or statements. While versatile, remember that synonyms like "could cause concern" or "may be frowned upon" may be more appropriate for formal or academic writing. Overusing the phrase can make writing repetitive, so vary your language to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might cause disapproval

Directly indicates that something is likely to be unfavorably viewed.

may be frowned upon

Implies a degree of social disapproval or mild censure.

might be seen as questionable

Indicates that something's legitimacy is uncertain or dubious.

may cause concern

Focuses on the worry or unease something could generate, rather than surprise.

may be met with skepticism

Highlights the likelihood of doubt or disbelief.

could provoke reactions

Highlights the potential for responses or opposition, emphasizing action.

might raise questions

Suggests the potential to generate inquiry or doubt.

could be deemed unacceptable

Focuses on the potential for something to be judged as not permissible.

could be considered inappropriate

Focuses on whether something aligns with established standards of behavior.

could spark controversy

Emphasizes the potential to ignite significant disagreement or public debate.

FAQs

How can I use "might raise eyebrows" in a sentence?

Use "might raise eyebrows" to suggest that something could cause surprise, disapproval, or skepticism. For example, "The company's new policy on remote work might raise eyebrows among employees used to flexible arrangements".

What's a more formal alternative to "might raise eyebrows"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "could provoke reactions" or "may cause concern". These options sound more professional and less colloquial than "might raise eyebrows".

Is "might raise eyebrows" appropriate for academic writing?

While "might raise eyebrows" isn't strictly incorrect in academic writing, it may be perceived as informal. More suitable options include "could be considered inappropriate" or "may be met with skepticism", which convey a similar meaning with greater precision.

What's the difference between "might raise eyebrows" and "could spark controversy"?

"Might raise eyebrows" implies mild surprise or disapproval, while "could spark controversy" suggests the potential for significant public disagreement or debate. The latter is a stronger and more impactful phrase.