questionable choice

USAGE SUMMARY

"questionable choice" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or action that is uncertain or questionable in its wisdom or morality. Example: The CEO's questionable choice to cut employee benefits instead of cutting his own salary caused outrage among the employees.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

Before the Yankees' bullpen imploded, Derek Jeter made a questionable choice in the fourth.

The New York Times - Sports

And some studies in animals suggest that the drug might cause fetal harm, making it a questionable choice for pregnant women, the label says.

The New York Times

That, he said, is a questionable choice, especially as it applies to the harpsichord, which, lacking dynamic contrast, needs that flexibility to gain expressivity.

The New York Times

At first, the decision to reproduce the book down to the poor-quality images seems like a questionable choice — likely only to attract photo geeks.

The New York Times

But the setting may also be a questionable choice; Mr. Santorum lost Somerset County, which usually votes Republican, in his 2006 re-election bid.

The New York Times

The play is a most questionable choice for revival, a fact that is made even more evident in Robert Allan Ackerman's production at Circle in the Square.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Hunter also made "questionable choices" when using union funds to travel.

The New York Times - Sports

While a crew of judges made some potentially questionable choices, many of the photos are good; some even great.

The New York Times

Aware of the potential for questionable choices of companies within these peer groups, institutional investors are examining them more closely.

The New York Times

All of these questionable choices — and many more — are vividly related in Philipp Meyer's engrossing first novel, "American Rust".

The New York Times - Books

This doesn't excuse Twitter's leaders for the questionable choices they've made over the years.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context when using "questionable choice". Ensure your audience understands the reasons behind your assessment. Is it due to ethical concerns, practical considerations, or potential negative outcomes?

Common error

While generally acceptable, avoid overusing "questionable choice" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced language to articulate your concerns. Instead of simply labeling something a "questionable choice", elaborate on the specific shortcomings or risks involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "questionable choice" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "questionable" modifies the noun "choice". As shown in Ludwig, it often serves to qualify a decision or action, casting doubt on its appropriateness or wisdom.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "questionable choice" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey doubt or disapproval regarding a decision or selection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. Appearing frequently in news and media, as well as scientific contexts, the phrase serves to express concern about the wisdom, ethics, or potential consequences of a particular choice. While generally neutral in tone, writers should consider the specific context and audience when using this phrase, opting for more precise language in highly formal settings. Related alternatives include "dubious selection" and "ill-advised decision". Overall, "questionable choice" is a versatile phrase for expressing reservations about decisions across various domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dubious selection

This alternative highlights the uncertainty or doubt surrounding the selection process.

ill-advised decision

This phrase emphasizes the lack of wisdom or good judgment in making the decision.

problematic selection

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

unwise option

This phrase directly suggests that the option is not a sensible or practical one.

debatable pick

This alternative highlights that the pick is open to argument or discussion.

controversial selection

This phrase stresses that the selection is likely to cause disagreement or disapproval.

questionable preference

This alternative focuses on the doubtfulness of the stated liking for something.

suspect judgement

This phrase highlights that the judgment is under suspicion or mistrust.

poor selection

This alternative implies a low quality or inadequate choice.

risky decision

This phrase suggests the decision involves a high probability of negative consequences.

FAQs

How can I use "questionable choice" in a sentence?

You can use "questionable choice" to express doubt or disapproval about a decision. For example, "Hiring a family member was a "questionable choice" given their lack of experience".

What are some alternatives to saying "questionable choice"?

Alternatives include "dubious selection", "ill-advised decision", or "problematic selection" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "questionable choice" formal or informal?

"Questionable choice" is generally considered neutral and suitable for most contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider using more precise language to articulate the specific reasons for your assessment.

What makes a choice "questionable"?

A choice is "questionable" when it raises doubts or concerns about its wisdom, ethics, or potential consequences. It suggests that the decision might not be the best or most appropriate one in the given circumstances.