we were questioning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were questioning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a past situation where you or a group were inquiring or seeking information about something. Example: "During the meeting, we were questioning the validity of the data presented by the research team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

We were questioning Nasser's running between the wickets.

Independent

We were questioning them and they actually accused us of being unpatriotic".

The Guardian

"From where he came earlier in the season, when we were questioning whether or not to have him on the staff, to keep him in the rotation, he's pretty much been a huge part of the success we've had here," Manuel said.

The New York Times - Sports

And we were questioning why we had to hit into a puddle because the first green was already under water".

BBC

"We were questioning: 'Why are people so sick?'" she recalled.

Huffington Post

And it kind of looked like diarrhea so we were questioning if it was vomit or poop.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

We're questioning everything.

The Guardian - Books

"We are questioning them".

The New York Times

"We're questioning whether it is authentic," he said.

The New York Times

"So we are questioning: Is this interior or exterior?

The New York Times

I don't know why we're questioning him.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we were questioning", ensure the context clarifies what exactly was being questioned to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "we were questioning" when a stronger expression of disagreement or challenge is more appropriate. For example, if you actively refuted an argument, "we were challenging" might be more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were questioning" functions as a verb phrase in the past continuous tense. According to Ludwig, it indicates that a group was in the process of inquiring about or expressing doubt about something. The phrase serves to describe an ongoing action in the past.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were questioning" is grammatically sound and used to convey that a group was in the process of inquiring, doubting, or investigating something in the past. As per Ludwig, the phrase is acceptable in written English and commonly appears in neutral contexts. To avoid ambiguity, ensure the object of the questioning is clear. Alternatives such as "we were inquiring" or "we were doubting" can offer subtle shifts in meaning. When in doubt, consider the precise nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were inquiring

Replaces "questioning" with a more formal synonym, emphasizing the act of asking for information.

we were doubting

Highlights the element of uncertainty or disbelief, suggesting a lack of conviction.

we were probing

Emphasizes a thorough and careful investigation, implying a deeper level of scrutiny.

we were investigating

Focuses on a systematic examination to uncover facts and evidence.

we were challenging

Suggests a direct confrontation with an idea or statement, expressing disagreement.

we were skeptical of

Emphasizes a state of doubt or disbelief regarding something.

we were unsure about

Highlights a lack of certainty or confidence.

we expressed doubts about

Focuses on the act of voicing uncertainties or reservations.

we raised concerns about

Emphasizes the act of bringing attention to potential problems or issues.

we had reservations regarding

Indicates a feeling of unease or doubt about something, often in a more formal context.

FAQs

How can I use "we were questioning" in a sentence?

"We were questioning" is used to indicate that you and others were expressing doubt or inquiring about something. For example, "We were questioning the data's validity" or "We were questioning his motives".

What can I say instead of "we were questioning"?

You can use alternatives like "we were inquiring", "we were doubting", or "we were probing" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "we were questioning"?

Yes, "we were questioning" is grammatically correct. It's the past continuous tense of the verb "to question", used with the plural pronoun "we".

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

"We were questioning" implies an ongoing or repeated action in the past, while "we questioned" ("we questioned") suggests a completed action. For example, "We were questioning the results" suggests a period of inquiry, while "We questioned the results" implies a single instance of asking about the results.