remained in question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "remained in question" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is still uncertain or unresolved. Example: "The validity of the research findings remained in question after further scrutiny."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Rachel herself remained in question.

The New Yorker

The suspect's identity remained in question.

The New York Times

But the shape of the next government remained in question.

The New York Times

The targets of the bombs remained in question.

The New York Times

Whether and how long teachers will go on working without a settlement remained in question, however.

The New York Times

At the turn of the 21st century, the effectiveness of the V-chip remained in question.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Meanwhile, other more serious accusations that it is cooperating with Russia to win next year's election remain in question.

The Washington Post

Although many studies have searched for the underpinnings of personality since the completion of the Human Genome Project, in 2003, many of the relevant genes remain in question.

The New Yorker

The crisis has become a critical test for the government of the civilian president, Asif Ali Zardari, and for a security apparatus whose loyalties, many Pakistanis say, remain in question.

The New York Times

If the Mexican people and government are serious about taking back their country, they will face a deadly struggle whose outcome will remain in question for years.

The New York Times

Moreover, the trust essential to the relationship between priests and parishioners will remain in question as long as abuses are known to have occurred.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "remained in question" when you want to emphasize that an issue, fact, or outcome is still uncertain after a period of time or investigation. It suggests a lack of resolution despite efforts to find an answer.

Common error

Avoid using "remained in question" in very casual or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "wasn't clear" or "was uncertain" may be more appropriate in those contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "remained in question" functions as a predicate adjective describing the state of a subject. It indicates that a subject's status, validity, or outcome continues to be uncertain or unresolved over a period. As Ludwig indicates, the expression is grammatically correct and frequently employed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

23%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "remained in question" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something continues to be uncertain or unresolved. As confirmed by Ludwig, it sees frequent usage across diverse high-quality sources, especially in news media, science, and encyclopedias. While versatile, simpler alternatives might suit more casual settings. The phrase conveys uncertainty and implies a need for further evidence or investigation before a conclusion can be reached. Remember, using "remained in question" effectively means choosing it when you want to highlight the ongoing lack of clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was still unresolved

Focuses on the lack of resolution rather than the questioning aspect.

was yet to be determined

Emphasizes the future aspect of finding an answer.

was still uncertain

Highlights the lack of certainty surrounding the topic.

was left open to debate

Indicates ongoing discussion and disagreement.

was under consideration

Suggests a formal process of review and evaluation.

was subject to doubt

Highlights the presence of skepticism.

was pending clarification

Emphasizes the need for further explanation or details.

was not yet clear

Focuses on the lack of clarity.

was up in the air

An idiomatic expression signifying uncertainty.

was shrouded in mystery

Implies a lack of understanding or hidden information.

FAQs

What does "remained in question" mean?

The phrase "remained in question" indicates that something has not been resolved or decided and continues to be uncertain or doubtful.

How can I use "remained in question" in a sentence?

You can use "remained in question" to describe situations where an outcome, fact, or decision is still uncertain. For example: "The outcome of the election "was still unresolved"." or "The suspect's motive "was subject to doubt"."

What are some alternatives to "remained in question"?

Alternatives include "was still uncertain", "was yet to be determined", or "was left open to debate", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "remained in question" formal or informal?

"Remained in question" is generally considered neutral to formal. Simpler phrases may be more suitable for informal contexts. For example, instead of "the matter remained in question" you could say "the matter "wasn't clear"".