The phrase "called in question" is spelled with a rare instance of the letter combination "-alled" in English. The IPA transcription of the word would be /kɔːld ɪn ˈkwɛstʃən/. The "-alled" spelling is not commonly used in other words, with the exception of "enthralled." The phrase means to challenge or dispute the truth or accuracy of something, and is often used in legal or formal contexts. Despite its unusual spelling, it is a well-known and frequently used phrase in English.
The term "called in question" refers to the act of challenging, doubting, or questioning the validity, truthfulness, or accuracy of something or someone. It implies raising doubts or uncertainties concerning a particular belief, statement, action, or quality, often with the intention of seeking clarification or supporting evidence. When something is "called in question," it is typically subjected to scrutiny, critique, or examination, as its veracity, reliability, or effectiveness becomes the subject of doubt.
This expression can be used in various contexts, including intellectual debates, legal proceedings, scientific investigations, or everyday conversations. It suggests an active engagement in questioning the validity or reliability of a particular assertion or claim. Whether it is a person's competence, a theory's credibility, an event's occurrence, or a statement's accuracy, when something is "called in question," it implies that it is being challenged or subjected to doubt.
By "calling something in question," individuals or groups aim to evaluate its merits or justification, encouraging a critical analysis that may lead to either the dismissal or the reinforcement of the subject in question. This phrase often serves as an invitation to explore the evidence, reasoning, or credibility behind a particular claim or belief, fostering a process of inquiry and investigation aimed at establishing the truth or falsehood of the matter at hand.