we question whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we question whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing doubt or uncertainty about a particular statement or situation. Example: "In light of the recent findings, we question whether the initial conclusions drawn from the study are still valid."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We question whether the majority of these vetoes are legal".

The New York Times

In this paper we question whether sketching is essential for conceptual designing.

Design Studies

In the present paper, we question whether such transition really exists or not.

Materials Science and Engineering: A

We question whether PES in Vietnam has the potential to enhance forest protection and watershed management.

Ecosystem Services

"In fact, the work's been so good that we question whether it's Will's own".

The New Yorker

"We question whether the Justice Department has a real commitment to prosecuting detainee abuse," he said.

The New York Times

"We are distressed with the performance and we question whether she has the ability to turn the company around".

The New York Times

In this paper we question whether real ecological improvements have been achieved and have justified the high cost of the restoration.

Ecological Engineering

We question whether some factors labelled as 'critical' success factors for ERP projects are in practice actually critical for achieving success in implementation and improving output performance.

International Journal of Production Economics

"We question whether it would be a good use of NHS resources for patients to be able to have their ears syringed on a Sunday teatime.

The Guardian

However, it is very unusual to see an outsourcer effectively buying a profit stream, and we question whether the contract is value accretive.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we question whether" to introduce a critical examination of a topic, suggesting there may be reason to doubt or further investigate a claim. It is often used in academic or analytical writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we question whether" in casual conversations or informal writing where simpler phrases like "we wonder if" or "are we sure" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we question whether" functions as an interrogative expression, used to introduce doubt or critical examination of a statement or situation. It frames a statement as one open to further consideration or challenge. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Social Media

0%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we question whether" is a versatile phrase used to introduce doubt, prompt critical examination, and challenge the validity of statements. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is considered correct and usable. It is most frequently found in scientific and news contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. While grammatically sound, remember to consider the formality of the context and choose alternatives like "we wonder if" for casual situations. This expression helps to initiate thoughtful consideration and reevaluation of information.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we doubt if

This alternative uses "doubt" instead of "question", expressing a stronger sense of uncertainty.

we are unsure whether

Replaces "question" with "are unsure", softening the tone of inquiry.

we wonder whether

Uses "wonder" to express curiosity or mild doubt.

it is questionable whether

Shifts the focus to the subject being questionable, rather than the act of questioning.

we have doubts about whether

Emphasizes the presence of doubts regarding a particular matter.

we dispute whether

Indicates a disagreement or challenge to the validity of something.

we challenge the notion that

Presents a direct challenge to a specific idea or assumption.

we express reservations about whether

Conveys a sense of unease or hesitation regarding a certain matter.

can we be certain that

Presents the challenge as a question focused on certainty.

is it truly the case that

Directly challenges and questions the truth of the situation at hand.

FAQs

How can I use "we question whether" in a sentence?

You can use "we question whether" to express doubt or uncertainty about a statement or situation. For example, "We question whether the data sufficiently supports the hypothesis."

What is a formal alternative to "we question whether"?

In more formal contexts, you might use alternatives such as "it is questionable whether" or "we doubt whether" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it appropriate to use "we question whether" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "we question whether" may sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "we wonder if" or "are we sure" for a more natural tone.

What's the difference between "we question whether" and "we ask whether"?

"We ask whether" implies a straightforward inquiry, whereas "we question whether" suggests a deeper level of scrutiny and doubt about something that may seem uncertain or problematic.