question the decision

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "question the decision" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing doubt or seeking clarification about a particular choice or conclusion that has been made. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, I felt it was necessary to question the decision made by the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Few seemed to question the decision or Mr. Pagan's abilities.

The New York Times - Arts

Few would question the decision under the circumstances.

The New York Times - Sports

Angry environmentalists arrived here last week to question the decision.

The New York Times

Some elected officials have begun to question the decision to leave the borders open.

The New York Times - Health

Many will question the decision to run her in the Derby.

The New York Times

Lopez did not question the decision, saying he knew in advance, and that "I was all for it".

The New York Times - Sports

As Justice Stewart had predicted, newspaper editorial boards did continue to question the decision to stay on the case.

The New York Times

That led manager Roberto Mancini to question the decision, but Riley says tackles need to remain within a clearly-defined law.

Independent

But Eugene's cash shortfall and need to use him calls into question the decision to ditch the scrutiny that a bidding process would have brought.

Independent

The second tweet appeared to question the decision, comparing the MP to "a modern day Robin Hood", who "robs the poor to help the rich".

Independent

Some industry experts question the decision to scrap the current rules in which concessions are overseen by the National Petroleum Agency (ANP).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using stronger verbs like "challenge" or "dispute" if you want to convey a stronger sense of disagreement or opposition.

Common error

Ensure that the decision being questioned is clearly identified. Avoid using "question the decision" without specifying which decision you are referring to, as it can lead to confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "question the decision" functions as a verb phrase where "question" acts as a transitive verb taking "the decision" as its direct object. It indicates the act of expressing doubt, inquiry, or disagreement regarding a specific decision, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sports

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "question the decision" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to convey doubt, seek clarification, or challenge the validity of a specific decision. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternatives like "challenge the ruling" or "dispute the conclusion" exist, the choice depends on the desired tone and level of directness. When using the phrase, ensure that the decision in question is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. Overall, this phrase serves as a valuable tool for critical analysis and constructive dialogue in numerous situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

call into question the rationale

Specifically targets the reasoning behind a decision.

challenge the ruling

This implies a more formal or direct opposition to a decision.

query the basis for the resolution

Directly asks for clarification or justification of the decision's foundation.

raise objections to the judgment

Indicates a formal expression of disagreement with an assessment.

dispute the conclusion

Focuses on disagreeing with the final point reached after reasoning.

take issue with the determination

Suggests a specific point of contention or disagreement.

express doubts about the choice

Highlights the feeling of uncertainty regarding a selection.

have reservations about the settlement

Expresses a feeling of unease or doubt regarding an agreement.

scrutinize the deliberation

Emphasizes a careful and critical examination of the decision-making process.

second-guess the assessment

Suggests thinking critically about the analysis done.

FAQs

How can I use "question the decision" in a sentence?

You can use "question the decision" to express doubt or seek clarification. For example, "After reviewing the data, I had to question the decision to cut funding for the project."

What are some alternatives to "question the decision"?

You can use alternatives like "challenge the ruling", "dispute the conclusion", or "raise objections to the judgment", depending on the context.

Is it better to "question the decision" or "challenge the decision"?

"Question the decision" implies seeking understanding or expressing doubt, while "challenge the decision" suggests a more direct and confrontational opposition. The best choice depends on the intended tone and context.

When is it appropriate to "question the decision"?

It's appropriate to "question the decision" when you have valid reasons to doubt its rationale, potential consequences, or alignment with established principles. It's also appropriate when seeking clarification or additional information about the decision-making process.