we are questioned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are questioned" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a situation where someone is asking questions or seeking clarification from a group that includes the speaker. Example: "In the meeting, we are questioned about our progress on the project and our future plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"If we spend money from the regular budget head funded by foreign donors we are questioned.

BMC Health Services Research

If we spend even after receiving an authorisation letter we are questioned: 'why did we spend without receiving the letter of release?' Even those taking risks are trapped sometimes".

BMC Health Services Research

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We were questioned extensively.

The New York Times

"I think it's entirely legitimate we're questioned on these issues," she said.

The Guardian

We were questioned delicately, resolutely investigated, and found guilty only of taking life too lightly.

The New York Times

The FBI was asking the same questions we were, questions we thought society should be asking, too.

BBC

We believe this should be questioned.

Protein & Cell

If we lose I will be questioned.

BBC

"But we recognise there are questions," he said.

The Guardian

Where are we going?' These are questions of the heart".

Forbes

These are questions we'll be considering".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we are questioned" when you want to convey that a group, including yourself, is being asked questions, often in a context of accountability or investigation.

Common error

Avoid using "we are questioned" when the active voice would be more direct and clear. For instance, instead of "we are questioned by the board", consider "the board questions us."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are questioned" typically functions as a passive construction where "we" (a group including the speaker) is the subject receiving the action of being questioned. Ludwig confirms this usage with examples from various sources.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are questioned" is a grammatically sound passive construction used to indicate that a group, including the speaker, is being subjected to questioning or scrutiny. Ludwig's analysis, supported by a variety of sources, shows its prevalence in neutral to formal contexts such as news reports, scientific articles, and business communications. While the phrase is generally correct and usable, consider whether an active voice construction would be more direct. Common alternatives include phrases such as "we face inquiries" or "we are under scrutiny". Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we face inquiries

Replaces "questioned" with "inquiries", suggesting a more formal or official investigation.

we are asked for clarification

Focuses on requests for further explanation or detail.

we must answer questions

Emphasizes the obligation to provide answers.

we are interviewed

Specifies the questioning as part of a formal interview process.

we are subject to interrogation

Uses "interrogation" to imply a more intense or formal questioning process.

we are investigated

Implies a formal investigation involving questioning and gathering information.

we are under scrutiny

Shifts the focus to the act of being closely examined or observed, rather than directly questioned.

we are called to answer

Emphasizes a formal summons or demand to provide an answer.

we are challenged

Suggests the questions are intended to test or dispute our position.

we are held accountable

Highlights the aspect of being responsible for answering for one's actions or decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "we are questioned" in a sentence?

"We are questioned" indicates that a group, including the speaker, is being asked questions. For example: "After the incident, "we are questioned" about our involvement.".

What can I say instead of "we are questioned"?

You can use alternatives such as "we face inquiries", "we are subject to interrogation", or "we are under scrutiny" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "we are questioned" or "we are asking questions"?

"We are questioned" implies that others are asking us questions, while "we are asking questions" means that we are the ones doing the asking. The correct choice depends on who is posing the questions.

What's the difference between "we are questioned" and "we were questioned"?

"We are questioned" refers to a present or ongoing situation, while "we were questioned" indicates that the questioning happened in the past. For example: "Currently, "we are questioned" daily", vs "we were questioned last week".