in question crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "in question," you've come to the right place. We provide solutions across various letter counts, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "in question crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MOOT: Subject to debate or dispute; often referring to a point or issue that has no practical significance because it has been resolved or made irrelevant.
7 Letters
ATISSUE: Currently under discussion, dispute, or consideration; the main point of contention.
9 Letters
DEBATABLE: Open to discussion or argument; not certain; a point on which reasonable people might disagree.
More About "in question crossword clue"
The phrase "in question" is a versatile clue often used in crosswords to point towards something that is under examination, doubt, or dispute. It can refer to a subject that is currently being discussed, a person whose integrity is being challenged, or an item being referred to or considered. The nuance of the answer often depends heavily on the context provided by the rest of the clue or other solved letters in the puzzle.
When you encounter "in question" in a crossword, think about words that convey uncertainty, relevance, or a state of being unsettled. Common answers like MOOT, AT ISSUE, or DEBATABLE each carry a slightly different connotation, from something being irrelevant to something being actively discussed. Paying close attention to the number of letters required and any adjacent clues can help narrow down the possibilities.
This clue is a good example of how English idioms are cleverly integrated into crosswords, requiring solvers to think beyond literal definitions and consider idiomatic meanings or synonyms of the phrase itself.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: For clues like "in question," think about the subtle differences between potential synonyms. Is the clue hinting at something disputed (DEBATABLE), currently relevant (AT ISSUE), or made irrelevant (MOOT)?
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If you have "in question" and only 4 letters fit, MOOT is highly likely.
- Cross-Reference with Solved Letters: Always use any already-filled-in letters from crossing words. These can instantly confirm or rule out a potential answer.
- Look for Antonyms: Sometimes the clue might be a tricky antonym. While "in question" implies doubt, its opposite might be "certain" or "definite." Keep an eye out for such misdirection.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "in question" typically mean in a crossword clue?
In a crossword clue, "in question" often refers to something being doubted, discussed, disputed, or currently relevant to the topic at hand. It implies a lack of certainty or an ongoing consideration.
How can I tell if an answer for "in question" is "MOOT" versus "AT ISSUE"?
While both relate to a topic, "MOOT" usually implies that the point has become irrelevant or already resolved, making further discussion pointless. "AT ISSUE" suggests the point is currently active, relevant, and central to a discussion or dispute. The surrounding words in the clue or the puzzle's theme might offer context.
Are there other common phrases for "in question" in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related phrases that might appear in crosswords include "doubtful," "under consideration," "under dispute," "problematic," "up for discussion," or "arguable," depending on the specific nuance intended by the clue writer.