Questionability: meaning, definitions and examples

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questionability

 

[ˌkwɛstʃəˈnæbɪlɪti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in decision making

The quality of being open to question or doubt; uncertainty.

Synonyms

doubtfulness, skepticism, uncertainty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
questionability

This word is often used in formal contexts to refer to the quality of being doubtful or open to question, especially in terms of validity or legitimacy.

  • The questionability of the new policy raised concerns among the board members
doubtfulness

Doubtfulness refers to the state of being unsure or having reservations. It is used in both formal and informal settings when discussing someone's feelings of doubt.

  • Her doubtfulness about the project's success was evident in her hesitation
uncertainty

Uncertainty is used to describe a lack of sureness or predictability in various situations, such as future events or outcomes. It is a broad term that can be used in multiple contexts.

  • The uncertainty about the weather made planning the event difficult
skepticism

Skepticism implies a more general attitude of questioning or doubting, often in a critical or negative manner. It is commonly used in discussions about beliefs, claims, and opinions.

  • There was a lot of skepticism surrounding the new scientific study

Examples of usage

  • It is important to consider the questionability of the evidence before making a decision.
  • The questionability of the data led to further investigation.
Context #2 | Noun

in ethics

The ethical or moral quality of being doubtful or questionable.

Synonyms

dubiousness, integrity, morality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
questionability

Use this word when there is doubt or uncertainty about the truth or reliability of something.

  • The questionability of the evidence presented in the trial raised concerns among the jurors
dubiousness

This word often conveys a stronger negative connotation, used when there is suspicion or distrust towards something or someone.

  • The dubiousness of his alibi made the police consider him a prime suspect
morality

Use this word to talk about principles related to right and wrong behavior, especially in a societal or personal context.

  • The morality of the new law was debated by many, with arguments both for and against its ethical implications
integrity

This word is positive and is used to describe someone’s honesty, strong moral principles, and soundness of character.

  • Her integrity was never in question, as she always acted in a fair and just manner

Examples of usage

  • The questionability of his actions raised concerns among the team members.
  • Many people were troubled by the questionability of the company's practices.

Translations

Translations of the word "questionability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 questionabilidade

🇮🇳 संदिग्धता

🇩🇪 Fragwürdigkeit

🇮🇩 keraguan

🇺🇦 сумнівність

🇵🇱 wątpliwość

🇯🇵 疑わしさ

🇫🇷 caractère douteux

🇪🇸 cuestionabilidad

🇹🇷 şüphelilik

🇰🇷 의심스러움

🇸🇦 قابلية الشك

🇨🇿 pochybnost

🇸🇰 pochybnosť

🇨🇳 可疑性

🇸🇮 vprašljivost

🇮🇸 vafasemi

🇰🇿 күмәнділік

🇬🇪 ეჭვიანობა

🇦🇿 şübhəlilik

🇲🇽 cuestionabilidad

Etymology

The word 'questionability' is derived from the noun 'question' combined with the suffix '-ability', which denotes the capacity or ability to do something. The term first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, evolving from the concept of questioning or doubting the validity of something. Over time, 'questionability' has become a common term used to express uncertainty, doubt, or ethical concerns in various contexts.

See also: questionable, questionableness, questionably, questioner, questioning, questioningly, questionnaire, unquestionable, unquestionably, unquestioned.