subject to question

USAGE SUMMARY

"subject to question" is an acceptable phrase to use in English.
You can use this phrase when you want to suggest that something is uncertain or open to debate. For example, "The sustainability of the project is still subject to question."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"My nationality is French, and my normality has been often subject to question".

The New York Times

Sotomayor said Florida's "apparent success" using midazolam was "subject to question" because it also employs a paralytic drug.

The Guardian

If these key benchmarks are not based on observable transactions, I believe their integrity will continue to be subject to question".

The New York Times

In that light, Booker's most heroic accomplishments — like dashing into a burning building to save a neighbor — seemed subject to question.

The New Yorker

During the postwar period there was increased public concern in matters relating to Communism and the infiltration of government and essential industry by persons whose loyalty was subject to question.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In an article on the FBI first published in 1956 in the 14th edition of the Encyclopædia Britannica, Hoover chronicled its different achievements under his leadership, from its pursuit of John Dillinger and other famous American gangsters to its efforts to prevent the infiltration of the federal government by "persons whose loyalty was subject to question," notably suspected communists.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Israeli officials say that any passenger trying to board El Al is subject to questions from security agents.

The New York Times

Pupils had one hour to write down their answers on each subject to questions drawn from assigned textbooks.

The New York Times

Because its design is highly flexible, it has for years been subject to questions about the amount of reserves that should back it.

The New York Times

Background: The research process from study design and selecting a species and its husbandry, through the experiment, analysis, peer review, and publication is rarely subject to questions about sex or gender differences in mainstream life sciences research.

Gender Medicine

FROM their founding, business schools have been subject to questions of legitimacy that their fellow professional schools in law and medicine have rarely faced (but that schools of journalism and education often have).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subject to question" when you want to indicate that something is not definitively settled and may require further investigation or discussion.

Common error

While acceptable, "subject to question" can sometimes sound less direct than alternatives like "debatable" or "uncertain". Choose the phrasing that best suits the tone and clarity of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subject to question" functions as a predicative adjective, modifying a noun and indicating that the noun's validity, accuracy, or reliability is uncertain. Ludwig AI's analysis shows it is commonly used to express doubt or uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subject to question" is a common and acceptable way to express that something is uncertain or debatable. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples reveals its widespread use across varied contexts, most prominently in news media and scientific literature. While grammatically sound, writers should consider synonyms like "open to doubt" or "debatable" to ensure the tone and clarity of their writing. Ultimately, "subject to question" effectively communicates uncertainty and invites further scrutiny.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

open to doubt

Emphasizes uncertainty and lack of definitive proof.

debatable

Highlights the potential for disagreement and discussion.

uncertain

Focuses on the lack of sureness or predictability.

in doubt

Indicates a state of uncertainty or disbelief.

contestable

Suggests that something can be disputed or challenged.

disputable

Similar to "contestable", but may imply a stronger likelihood of disagreement.

under scrutiny

Highlights examination and potential criticism.

up for discussion

Implies that a topic is available and ready to be debated.

liable to be challenged

Suggests a probability that something will be questioned.

calling into question

Implies the action of casting doubt on something.

FAQs

How can I use "subject to question" in a sentence?

You can use "subject to question" to indicate that something is uncertain or debatable. For example, "The accuracy of the data is still subject to question".

What is a synonym for "subject to question"?

Alternatives to "subject to question" include "open to doubt", "debatable", or "uncertain". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "subject to question" or "questionable"?

Both "subject to question" and "questionable" imply doubt, but "questionable" often suggests a stronger degree of doubt or suspicion. The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is "subject to question" most appropriate?

"Subject to question" is suitable in various contexts, from news reporting to academic writing and business discussions. However, be mindful of the overall tone and choose synonyms as necessary to avoid repetition or enhance clarity.