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noun Common

questioning

KWEHS-chuh-nihng

Questioning (noun) means the act of asking questions, especially formally, as in an investigation. Example: “The suspect was taken in for questioning.”

noun
1
The act of asking questions, especially formally, as in an investigation.
"The suspect was taken in for questioning."
"After hours of questioning, he finally admitted the truth."
adj
1
Showing curiosity, doubt, or a desire to understand.
"She gave him a questioning look."
"He has a naturally questioning mind."
2
Uncertain about one's own sexual orientation or gender identity.
"The support group welcomes anyone who is questioning."
"She described herself as questioning at the time."

How to Use Questioning

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe act of asking questions, a curious or doubtful expression, or being unsure about one's identity.

Common pairings
under questioning questioning look questioning mind

Word Forms

more questioning comparative, questionings plural, most questioning superlative

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Test yourself on “questioning” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

The suspect was taken in for _____.

Etymology

From question + -ing.

Related Words

Rhymes for questioning

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “questioning” mean?

The word “questioning” means the act of asking questions, especially formally, as in an investigation. In plain terms, the act of asking questions, a curious or doubtful expression, or being unsure about one's identity.

How do you pronounce “questioning”?

“Questioning” is pronounced KWEHS-chuh-nihng (/ˈkwɛʃ.tə.nɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “questioning” in a sentence?

Here is “questioning” used in a sentence: “The suspect was taken in for questioning.”

What part of speech is “questioning”?

Depending on how it is used, “questioning” can be a noun and an adjective.

Is “questioning” a common word?

“Questioning” is a fairly common word in modern English.

How many meanings does “questioning” have?

“Questioning” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of asking questions, especially formally, as in an investigation.

What is the difference between questioning and interrogation?

Questioning is the general act of asking questions, and it can be neutral or friendly as well as formal. Interrogation implies formal, sustained, and often aggressive questioning, typically of a suspect by police or officials, so it carries a much harsher tone.

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