WordGarden.ioquestionable
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kwˈɛstʃənəbəl/
US
- /ˈkwɛstʃənəbəl/
Meanings
Adjective
open to doubt or not clearly true, valid, or reliable
not very good, suitable, or wise
morally suspect or improper
Beyond the definition
Something "questionable" isn't necessarily wrong, but it raises doubts or concerns. Imagine a detective investigating a crime—they might find evidence that is "questionable," meaning it's not solid enough to prove anything definitively. Or perhaps you hear about a deal that sounds too good to be true; that would also be considered questionable. It suggests something isn't quite right and deserves closer examination. A questionable character in a story is someone you wouldn't trust with your secrets!
The word "questionable" describes something that evokes doubt or suspicion; it's not clearly acceptable or legitimate. It doesn't necessarily mean something is bad, but rather that there are reasons to question its validity, morality, or reliability.
You might describe a business practice as "questionable" if it seems unethical, even if it is technically legal. A "questionable" alibi for someone accused of a crime suggests they may be hiding something. Context is key: a questionable decision isn't necessarily wrong, but it is one you'd likely think twice about making yourself.
"Questionable" can also apply to people. A "questionable" individual might have a shady reputation or behave in ways that make others uneasy. It implies a lack of trustworthiness, even if there's no concrete proof of wrongdoing. Think of it as a red flag—something that prompts you to ask more questions before accepting things at face value.
So, when something is questionable, it's not about certainty; it's about the presence of doubt and the need for further scrutiny. It invites investigation and careful consideration before forming an opinion or taking action.
Examples
- 1
Poor judgment
He made a questionable decision by trusting the email without checking it first.
- 2
Source reliability
The documentary includes several claims from questionable sources.
- 3
Online reputation
That website has a questionable reputation for selling fake products.
- 4
Legal status
Some of the company's accounting methods are legally questionable.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Medical treatment
It's questionable whether this treatment does more good than harm.
- PatternIt's questionable whether + clause
it is not clear whether ...
- 6
Humor
The joke got a laugh, but many people thought it was in questionable taste.
- Phrasein questionable taste
likely to offend people or seem inappropriate
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- questionable judgment
- questionable motives
- questionable evidence
- of questionable value
Word family
- question
- questionably
Explore
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- questionablenounadjective
Forms
- questionablespluralnounadjective