a question mark [hang] over {sth}
1
a feeling of uncertainty and doubt about something
The idiom "a question mark hangs over something" is used to express that there are unresolved issues, ambiguities, or unknowns related to the subject in question, and these factors cast doubt or ambiguity over the matter. The phrase originates from the literal image of a question mark, which represents uncertainty in written language.
- A question mark hangs over the future of the company and I'm sure you don't need me to remind you of that.
- There's still a big question mark hanging over his future with the team.
- Two big omissions are Danny Mills and Nick barmby - both of who must now have a question mark hanging against their future at the club.
- A question mark hangs over the company's financial stability due to recent losses.
- The mysterious disappearance of the artifact left a question mark hanging over the museum's security measures.