questionable
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kwˈɛstʃənəbəl/
US
- /ˈkwɛstʃənəbəl/
Description
- doubtful
- suspicious
- debatable
- not entirely trustworthy
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.
- 5
Medical treatment
It's questionable whether this treatment does more good than harm.
Pattern
It'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.
Phrase
in questionable taste
likely to offend people or seem inappropriate
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- questionablenounadjective
Forms
- questionablespluralnounadjective