cuestionar
Lemma Details
Translation: to question; to challenge; to query; to dispute; to call into question
Part of Speech: verb
Etymology: Derived from the Latin 'quaestionare', which comes from 'quaestio' meaning 'inquiry' or 'investigation'. It shares the same Latin root as the English words 'question', 'quest', and 'inquest'. The Spanish noun 'cuestión' (question) and the verb 'cuestionar' developed together, with the verb expressing the action of raising questions or doubts about something.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Los científicos cuestionaron los resultados del estudio.
The scientists questioned the results of the study.
No deberías cuestionar su autoridad en público.
You shouldn't challenge their authority in public.
Ella siempre cuestiona todo lo que le digo.
She always questions everything I tell her.
Es importante cuestionar las fuentes de información.
It's important to question the sources of information.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'quest' in English - both words involve seeking answers or truth.
- Remember 'cuestión' (question) + '-ar' (verb ending) = the action of questioning.
- Visualize a detective with a list of 'cuestiones' (questions) who is actively 'cuestionando' (questioning) suspects.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking academic and political contexts, 'cuestionar' is frequently used in debates and critical discussions. It carries a slightly more formal tone than simple 'asking' and often implies challenging established ideas or authority.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'cuestionar' means to challenge or doubt something, 'preguntar' simply means to ask a question without necessarily implying doubt or challenge.
This word:
Cuestionaron la validez de sus argumentos.
They questioned the validity of his arguments.
Confused word:
Me preguntó la hora.
He asked me the time.
Notes: 'Cuestionar' often has a more critical or analytical connotation, while 'preguntar' is more neutral and used for seeking information.
Mnemonic: 'Cuestionar' has 'cuestión' (question) + challenging tone; 'preguntar' is for simple inquiries.
Explanation: 'Cuestionar' means to challenge or express doubt, while 'consultar' means to consult, seek advice, or look up information.
Confused word:
Consultó el diccionario para verificar la ortografía.
He consulted the dictionary to verify the spelling.
Notes: 'Consultar' is about seeking information or advice, while 'cuestionar' involves critical examination or doubt.
Mnemonic: Think of 'consult' in English - 'consultar' is about seeking information, not challenging it.