to question the wisdom

USAGE SUMMARY

'to question the wisdom' is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "The audience members were reluctant to question the wisdom of the speaker's decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Many were quick to question the wisdom of sending British troops back to Helmand.

Independent

That intended durability caused human-rights campaigners to question the wisdom of retaining the signature strikes.

The Guardian

She cites the unwillingness of pathologists to question the wisdom with which doctors dispense medications.

The New York Times - Books

Even he has begun to question the wisdom of such nontraditional approaches.

The New York Times - Arts

But friends I know who once thought they would never leave have started to question the wisdom of that choice.

The New York Times

And many have come to question the wisdom of apeing traditional magazine formats on tablets and smartphones.

The Guardian - Tech

And that goes some way to explaining why The Independent will continue to question the "wisdom" of Saudi Arabia's autocracy.

Independent

This surely is the time for public sector leaders to question the wisdom of outsourcing as the default model.

The Guardian

Mr. Scowcroft is the third prominent Republican in recent days to question the wisdom of a campaign against Iraq.

The New York Times

These repercussions have prompted some to question the wisdom of Mr. Bush's aggressive response to the Russian incursion into Georgia.

The New York Times

I silently started to question the wisdom of having taken the walk and scanned the surrounding trees for lurking beasts.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to question the wisdom" in your writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates what decision, action, or belief is being scrutinized. Providing specific details will strengthen your critique.

Common error

Avoid using "to question the wisdom" without specifying what you are questioning. Always provide context to make your critique clear and impactful. For example, instead of simply stating "They began to question the wisdom", specify "They began to question the wisdom of the new marketing strategy".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to question the wisdom" functions as an infinitive phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It typically introduces a clause expressing doubt or scrutiny regarding a particular decision, action, or belief. As showcased by Ludwig's examples, this phrase is commonly used to introduce critical analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the infinitive phrase "to question the wisdom" is grammatically correct and very common, as confirmed by Ludwig AI and supported by numerous examples. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to express doubt or critical analysis regarding decisions or actions. While applicable in formal settings, it maintains a generally neutral register. When using this phrase, provide specific context to enhance clarity and impact. Alternatives include "to doubt the sagacity" or "to challenge the prudence", each offering slightly different nuances. Be mindful of avoiding overuse without clear context to maintain effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to call into question the advisability

Emphasizes the aspect of giving advice and whether the action was recommended or sensible.

to challenge the prudence

Focuses on the carefulness and good judgment aspect of the decision rather than its inherent wisdom.

to doubt the sagacity

Replaces "wisdom" with "sagacity", implying a more formal and intellectual assessment.

to dispute the rationale

Shifts the focus to the underlying reasoning and justification behind the action.

to be skeptical of the soundness

Highlights the robustness and reliability of the decision-making process.

to express reservations about the judiciousness

A more formal and nuanced way of questioning whether something was a good idea.

to query the appropriateness

Focuses on whether the decision or action was suitable or fitting for the situation.

to wonder about the validity

Questions the truth or factual basis of the reasoning behind the decision.

to take exception to the intelligence

Questions the rationale behind the decision, focusing on the understanding of the context.

to hesitate about the cleverness

Implies a doubt about the inventiveness of the action, in this case if it's a good idea.

FAQs

How can I use "to question the wisdom" in a sentence?

You can use "to question the wisdom" to express doubt or skepticism about a decision or course of action. For instance, "Analysts began to question the wisdom of the company's acquisition strategy."

What are some alternatives to "to question the wisdom"?

Alternatives include "to doubt the sagacity", "to challenge the prudence", or "to dispute the rationale", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "to question the wisdom" and "to question the judgment"?

While similar, "to question the wisdom" focuses more on the inherent rightness or prudence of a decision, whereas "to question the judgment" emphasizes the decision-making process itself and the capacity of the decision-maker. You could also consider to "to question the intellect" in order to emphasize a lack of skill/ability.

When is it appropriate to use "to question the wisdom" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "to question the wisdom" when you want to express critical analysis or doubt regarding a decision, strategy, or belief, especially in situations where the rationale or consequences are unclear or potentially negative.