What does "questionable" mean?

1. (doubtful or uncertain) not likely to be true or correct; something you should doubt. 2. (morally doubtful) likely to be dishonest, wrong, or not respectable. 3. (inviting inquiry) inviting or asking for a question to be asked.

questionable

adj.

US //ˈkwɛstʃənəbəɫ// UK //kwˈɛstʃənəbəl// ques·tion·able

1 doubtful or uncertain (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

not likely to be true or correct; something you should doubt.

open to doubt or challenge regarding factual accuracy or validity.

Example

The results of the study are questionable because the researchers only tested five people.

Example

The validity of the data remains questionable, as the methodology failed to account for significant environmental variables during the trial period.
- certain
- indisputable
2 morally doubtful (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

likely to be dishonest, wrong, or not respectable.

of dubious respectability, morality, or honesty.

Example

He has some questionable friends who always seem to get into trouble with the police.

Example

The company's questionable hiring practices eventually led to a full investigation by the labour board.
- honest
- respectable

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3 inviting inquiry (adj.)
C2 Proficiency Archaic Literary

inviting or asking for a question to be asked.

inviting inquiry or conversation; capable of being questioned.

Example

The stranger's sudden appearance in the village was a questionable event.

Example

Thou com'st in such a questionable shape that I will speak to thee.
- inquirable

Origin

From question + -able.

Word family

Adjectivequestionable
Adverbunquestionably