questioning adjective

[/ˈkwɛs.tʃə.nɪŋ/]
adjective
questionador, investigativo, duvidoso
1. expressing doubt or uncertainty about something
She gave him a questioning look when he explained his absence.
Ela lhe lançou um olhar questionador quando ele explicou sua ausência.
2. seeking information or clarification through inquiry
The journalist took a questioning approach to the interview.
O jornalista adotou uma abordagem investigativa na entrevista.
3. inclined to ask questions; inquisitive
Children have naturally questioning minds about the world around them.
As crianças têm mentes naturalmente investigativas sobre o mundo ao seu redor.
4. showing skepticism or disbelief
He raised his eyebrows in a questioning manner at the proposal.
Ele ergueu as sobrancelhas de forma duvidosa diante da proposta.
In both Brazilian and American English contexts, a 'questioning attitude' is generally valued in academic and professional settings as a sign of critical thinking. However, in Brazil, excessive questioning of authority figures may be perceived differently depending on social context. In American culture, particularly in journalism and education, a questioning mindset is explicitly encouraged and celebrated.
NYC Slang
sus (suspicious); side-eye energy
Synonyms / Sinônimos
inquisitiveskepticaldoubtfulinquiringcurioussuspicious
Antonyms / Antônimos
believingtrustingacceptingcertainconfident

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
questionador; duvidoso; investigativo
Most common usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
questionador; de olhar desconfiado
Often emphasizes the skeptical expression
São Paulo
investigativo; inquisitivo
Tends toward more formal/journalistic usage
Portugal
questionador; duvidoso; indagador
Similar usage to Brazil but 'indagador' is more common in Portugal

Related Words

questioninquiryskepticismdoubtinvestigationcuriosity

Related Idioms & Phrases

raise an eyebrow
give someone the third degree
cast doubt on something
look askance at
have reservations about
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