Questioning
'kwes.tʃən.ɪŋ
Definitions
3 meaningsTo ask questions of someone, especially in a formal context, or to express doubt or disbelief.
'kwes.tʃən.ɪŋ
Asking someone questions; expressing doubt or inquiry.
The teacher was questioning the students about the lesson.
💡 Simply: Like when you're trying to find out what happened, so you ask a lot of questions. Think of your friend who's always questioning your choices...
👶 For kids: Asking questions to find out something.
More Examples
The detective is questioning the witness about the crime.
He started questioning the validity of the scientific study.
How It's Used
"The police were questioning the suspect."
"The reporter was questioning the politician about the scandal."
Characterized by or expressing doubt, curiosity, or inquiry; skeptical.
'kwes.tʃən.ɪŋ
Expressing doubt or skepticism.
She gave a questioning glance at the bill.
💡 Simply: When you're not sure about something, you look at it with a questioning eye, like 'hmm, is that true?'
👶 For kids: Feeling like you want to know more about something, or not sure if it's right.
More Examples
He has a questioning attitude toward authority.
Her questioning voice revealed her skepticism.
How It's Used
"He had a questioning mind, always seeking deeper understanding."
"She gave him a questioning look when he made the unusual request."
The act or process of asking questions; an inquiry or examination.
'kwes.tʃən.ɪŋ
The act or process of asking questions.
The interrogation involved intense questioning.
💡 Simply: The process of asking someone questions, like when you're trying to find out a secret.
👶 For kids: When you're asking questions to find out something.
More Examples
The questioning revealed some inconsistencies in his story.
Their methods of questioning raised ethical concerns.
How It's Used
"The questioning lasted for several hours."
"Effective questioning is critical for a successful survey."
Synonyms
Examining
Probing
Curious
Dubious
Examination
Inquiry
Interrogation
Probe
Idioms & expressions
beyond questioning
Not open to doubt or dispute.
"Her integrity is beyond questioning."
question mark
A symbol (?) used to indicate a question.
"Use a question mark at the end of your interrogative sentences."
From the verb 'question', which originates from the Latin 'quaerere' (to ask, inquire). The '-ing' suffix indicates a present participle or gerund.
The word 'questioning' has been used in legal and philosophical contexts since the 16th century, referring to both the act of inquiry and the state of doubt.
Memory tip
Imagine a judge with a gavel, asking sharp questions. The image represents the act.