Translation guide
Expressing that something is doubtful, suspicious, or not certain in Japanese.
Expressing that the truth, quality, or outcome of something is not certain or is open to doubt.
The most direct equivalent for 'questionable,' meaning something is doubtful or suspicious. Often used for facts, claims, or motives.
His explanation is a bit questionable.
Literally 'there is doubt,' used to say that something is questionable or open to question. More formal than 疑わしい.
That plan is questionable.
Means 'uncertain' or 'unreliable.' Used when the validity or accuracy is questionable.
That information is questionable.
Means 'suspicious' or 'shady.' Often used for people, situations, or things that seem questionable in a dubious sense. Can be too strong for neutral doubt.
Can imply suspicion of wrongdoing, so use carefully when you only mean 'uncertain.'
That person is a bit questionable.
Describing actions, decisions, or behavior that are questionable from a moral or ethical standpoint.
Expressing that the quality, accuracy, or trustworthiness of something is questionable.
Directly states that the quality is questionable.
This product is of questionable quality.
Means 'lacks reliability.' Used when the trustworthiness of a source or method is questionable.
Means 'unreliable' or 'not to be trusted.' Casual and often used in speech.
What he says is questionable.
疑わしい (utagawashii) is the most neutral for 'doubtful' or 'questionable.' 怪しい (ayashii) implies suspicion or a shady atmosphere, often used for people or situations. いかがわしい (ikagawashii) is stronger, suggesting something disreputable or morally dubious, like a shady business.
His alibi is questionable.
That alley is questionable at night.
Beware of questionable advertisements.
His behavior is morally questionable.
Has a strong negative connotation, implying something is not trustworthy or possibly illegal.
It's a questionable business.
That data is of questionable reliability.