really questioned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "really questioned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the depth or intensity of questioning someone or something, often in a context where doubt or skepticism is involved. Example: "During the meeting, she really questioned the validity of the proposed budget cuts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

I really questioned photojournalism.

The New York Times

(No one really questioned that dismissal).

The New York Times - Sports

"I never really questioned it, I suppose," she said.

The New Yorker

"I had an aptitude in sciences and never really questioned it".

The New York Times

I really questioned who I was, suddenly, this lifelong lesbian living with a man".

The New York Times - Magazine

There were times when I really questioned what I was doing and why I was there.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

i really question that decision.

The Guardian - Sport

"We couldn't really question much.

Independent

"You need to really question their policies.

The Guardian

I really question the wisdom of this.

The New Yorker

"I really question whether they are using their advocacy voice".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "really questioned" to express a significant level of doubt or scrutiny. It's stronger than simply 'questioned' but less formal than 'thoroughly investigated'.

Common error

Avoid using "really questioned" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and sophisticated alternatives like "critically assessed" or "rigorously examined".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "really questioned" functions primarily as a verb phrase expressing a heightened sense of doubt or scrutiny. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Examples show it used to express doubt about decisions, integrity, or worth.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "really questioned" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a significant degree of doubt or critical scrutiny. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable. While prevalent in News & Media contexts, its usage in highly formal settings might warrant consideration of more precise alternatives. The phrase serves to intensify the act of questioning, indicating deeper concerns than a simple inquiry. The analyzed examples and available alternatives provide a comprehensive understanding of its appropriate usage and potential substitutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Seriously doubted

Emphasizes the intensity of doubt, similar to "really questioned" but focusing on the feeling of uncertainty.

Greatly wondered

Highlights the act of pondering with considerable interest or uncertainty, differing in focus from direct questioning.

Had serious reservations

Indicates significant doubts or concerns, shifting the focus from questioning to internal hesitations.

Expressed strong skepticism

Highlights the outward expression of doubt, unlike "really questioned" which can be internal.

Thoroughly scrutinized

Focuses on a detailed and critical examination, rather than just questioning.

Deeply pondered

Emphasizes thoughtful consideration and reflection, diverging from direct inquiry.

Seriously considered

Focuses on the importance or earnest of consideration.

Re-evaluated critically

Highlights the act of reassessing something with a critical eye, distinct from initial questioning.

Examined with significant doubt

Combines examination with a sense of mistrust or uncertainty.

Reflected intensely

Emphasizes deep and thoughtful reflection, rather than interrogation or doubt.

FAQs

How can I use "really questioned" in a sentence?

You can use "really questioned" to express that someone had serious doubts or concerns about something. For example, "I "really questioned" his motives after the incident."

What are some alternatives to "really questioned"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "seriously doubted", "greatly wondered", or "expressed strong skepticism".

Is "really questioned" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "really questioned" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using alternatives like "critically assessed" or "rigorously examined" for a more professional tone.

What's the difference between "questioned" and "really questioned"?

Adding "really" intensifies the act of questioning, indicating a deeper level of doubt or scrutiny compared to simply "questioned".