questionable need

[KWES-chuh-nuh-bul need]
noun phrasepl: questionable needs
necessidade questionável
1. A requirement or necessity that is doubtful, uncertain, or open to debate in terms of its actual validity or importance
The company's questionable need for a third office location raised concerns among investors.
A necessidade questionável da empresa de ter um terceiro escritório levantou preocupações entre os investidores.
2. A stated requirement whose legitimacy or merit is subject to scrutiny or dispute
The government justified the military spending as a questionable need for national security.
O governo justificou o gasto militar como uma necessidade questionável para a segurança nacional.
In both American and Brazilian business contexts, 'questionable need' is often used in corporate discussions, budget reviews, and policy debates to diplomatically challenge proposed expenditures or requirements without outright rejection. It reflects a culture of critical thinking and fiscal responsibility, particularly common in negotiations and risk assessments.
NYC Slang
sketchy need / sus necessity
Synonyms / Sinônimos
dubious requirementdebatable necessitydisputed needuncertain requirementcontestable necessity
Antonyms / Antônimos
clear needevident necessityobvious requirementundeniable needlegitimate necessity

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
necessidade questionável
Standard translation used in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
necessidade duvidosa
Common alternative emphasizing doubt or uncertainty
Rio de Janeiro
necessidade discutível
Often used in more casual, conversational speech
Portugal
necessidade questionável / necessidade discutível
Both forms used equally; slight preference for 'discutível' in casual speech

Related Words

skepticismdoubtrequirementlegitimacyjustificationscrutiny

Related Idioms & Phrases

a wolf in sheep's clothing
question the validity of
cast doubt on
put under scrutiny
raise eyebrows
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