raises eyebrows
Prompts doubtful looks
To raise eyebrows is to cause surprise, skepticism, or mild disapproval.
The phrase comes from the facial expression people make when startled or doubtful: Her decision to quit raised eyebrows among colleagues.
Something that raises eyebrows isn't necessarily scandalous—just unexpected or unconventional enough to provoke reaction.
- astonishmentIntense sudden wonder
- plot twistSudden narrative redirection
- disbeliefRejection of truth claims
- taboo-breakingViolating sacred prohibitions
- controversyProlonged public disagreement
puzzlement · unconventionality · side-eye · intrigue · revelation · sarcasm · suspicion · bewilderment · red flag · shock · anomaly · scandal · tongues wagging · talk of the town · skepticism · public scrutiny · irony · gossip
raises eyebrowsgoes without saying
Understood without articulation
par for the course · business as usual · meets expectations · reassures · flies under the radar
raises eyebrowspasses muster
Meets minimum requirements
impresses · satisfies · pleases · checks out
raise, raises, raised, raising, raiser, raisers, eyebrow, eyebrows, eyes