willing to question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "willing to question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an openness or readiness to challenge assumptions or seek clarification on a topic. Example: "A good scientist is always willing to question established theories in pursuit of new knowledge."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Formal & Business

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The last line of defense will always be citizens who are willing to question what they see and hear, even when it means questioning our own beliefs.

The Washington Post

Only when these assumptions change, and when more Chinese are willing to question the legitimacy of one-party rule, will the full force of new technologies be channelled to political change.

The New Yorker

If you are hiring for an internal role, screen for candidates who are logical, independent thinkers, and willing to question the existing culture of the corporation: these professionals will have the greatest potential to spot disruptive trends and surface them for strategic investment.

Forbes

Is he willing to question himself?

The New Yorker

For anyone willing to question authority, it gets worse.

The New York Times

Others are more willing to question you, resist you.

The New York Times

Few people seem willing to question whether building 1 World Trade Center makes any sense.

The New York Times

ICE students are willing to question conventional beliefs and models about the role of education in society.

Stanford University

"It is good that today's young people are willing to question and learn beyond what has been dictated to them".

The New York Times

Well, now there are more people willing to question the church, to do something about what's going on.

The New York Times

It doesn't mean he's not an unusually honest politician who's refreshingly free of cant and willing to question his party.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "willing to question" to emphasize the importance of critical thinking and inquiry. For instance, when describing desirable qualities in a team member or leader, highlighting their willingness to challenge assumptions can be impactful.

Common error

Avoid framing sentences passively (e.g., "assumptions should be willing to be questioned"). Instead, use active voice to clearly indicate who is doing the questioning (e.g., "leaders should be willing to question assumptions").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "willing to question" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It describes a characteristic or quality of someone or something, indicating their readiness or inclination to inquire, challenge, or scrutinize. Ludwig examples confirm its adjectival role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "willing to question" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an individual's readiness to challenge assumptions and seek clarification. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across diverse contexts, including news media, academia, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, it's best to emphasize active questioning and avoid passive constructions. Alternatives such as "eager to question" and "inclined to question" can add nuance depending on the desired emphasis. The phrase's neutral formality makes it suitable for a wide range of writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eager to question

Emphasizes enthusiasm and eagerness in questioning.

prepared to question

Highlights the readiness and preparation involved in questioning.

inclined to question

Suggests a natural tendency or disposition to question.

ready to challenge

Focuses on the aspect of challenging existing ideas or norms.

open to scrutiny

Highlights the aspect of being receptive to close examination and criticism.

disposed to inquire

Suggests an inherent willingness to ask questions and investigate.

receptive to challenges

Emphasizes openness to confrontational or difficult questions.

amenable to investigation

Highlights the aspect of being agreeable to a thorough examination.

not afraid to ask why

Highlights boldness and courage in raising questions, especially about the status quo.

open to debate

Expresses a willingness to engage in discussion and argument, rather than a direct act of questioning.

FAQs

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

The phrase "willing to question" is used to describe someone who is open to challenging assumptions, seeking clarification, and critically evaluating information. For example: "A good scientist is always "willing to question" established theories in pursuit of new knowledge".

What are some alternatives to "willing to question"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "eager to question", "inclined to question", or "ready to challenge" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "willing to question" or "open to questioning"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "willing to question" emphasizes active participation in questioning, while "open to questioning" suggests receptiveness to being questioned by others. The best choice depends on the intended nuance.

What does it mean to be "willing to question" authority?

To be "willing to question" authority means to critically evaluate the decisions and directives of those in positions of power, rather than blindly accepting them. It involves independent thinking and a commitment to truth, even when it challenges established hierarchies.