questionados

Questionados is a term used in Spanish-language discourse to refer to people who have been subjected to questioning or scrutiny. In journalistic and public conversation, the expression emphasizes the act of being questioned rather than implying a formal legal status. It is commonly applied to individuals connected with investigations, controversies, or public inquiries, including politicians, business leaders, and public servants.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from cuestionar (to question) and the participle cuestionado. In media coverage, "los cuestionados" often denotes those facing questions from investigators or reporters. Because it is primarily a journalistic descriptor, it does not correspond to a precise legal category in most jurisdictions, and its exact meaning can vary with context, sometimes signaling formal inquiry and other times mere scrutiny or inquiry.

Comparison and critiques: The label can carry stigma by suggesting guilt or complicity before any formal determination, and it is sometimes viewed as subjective or politically loaded. In some countries, official language relies on terms like "investigado" (under investigation) or "acusado" (accused), while "cuestionado" remains a descriptive, non-technical label used in media and public discourse.

See also: Investigated, Interrogation, Legal terminology in Spanish-speaking jurisdictions.