a question mark hangs over somebody/something

question mark over

An element of doubt surrounding the quality, ability, or future of (something). If we don't secure new funding soon, there is going to be a question mark over the future of this agency. The recent media coverage of the scandal has left a question mark over whether he should remain CEO of the company.

See also: mark, over, question

a ˈquestion mark hangs over somebody/something

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there’s a ˈquestion mark (hanging) over somebody/something

there is some doubt about somebody/something: A question mark hangs over the future of this club. ♢ There’s a question mark over his loyalty to the company.

See also: hang, mark, over, question, somebody, something