What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
curiously
Example
The child looked at the strange object curiously. [curiously: adverb]
Example
I am curious about the history of this town. [curious: adjective]
questioningly
Example
She looked at him questioningly, wondering if he was telling the truth. [questioningly: adverb]
Example
He raised his eyebrows questioningly, unsure of what she meant. [questioningly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Questioningly is less common than curiously in everyday language. Curiously is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while questioningly is more specific and used in limited situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between curiously and questioningly?
Both curiously and questioningly are considered neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.