Enquire: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'enquire' in formal or polite situations, especially in British English. It's often used in written communication.

• I wish to enquire about the opening hours
• She enquired whether the room was available

Use 'inquire' in similar contexts as 'enquire,' but it's more common in American English. It is appropriate for formal or official contexts.

• We inquired about the price of the conference room
• He inquired further into the matter

Use 'ask' in most general situations where you need information or help. It's the most common and versatile term.

• Can I ask you a question? I need to ask for directions

Use 'question' when expressing doubt or seeking detailed information. It often implies a follow-up or deeper probing.

• The detective questioned the suspect for hours
• She questioned the validity of the research

This is typically used in British English in formal settings to seek information politely or officially.

• I would like to enquire about the status of my application.
• She enquired if the tickets were still available.

A general term used in everyday conversation to request information or action from someone.

• Can I ask you a question?
• He asked her to pass the salt.

Often used in formal settings or written communication to raise a question or clarify a doubt.

• He sent an email to query the details of the report.
• The client queried the charges on the invoice.

Generally used in situations involving law enforcement or intense questioning, often with a negative or aggressive connotation.

• The detective had to interrogate the suspect for hours.
• She felt like she was being interrogated during the interview.

Commonly used in British English when asking for information or making a polite request.

• She decided to enquire about the job opening
• Can I enquire about the delivery time?

A common term used in everyday situations to ask for information, clarity, or details.

• Do you have a question about the homework? He asked a question during the meeting

Often used in a formal or semi-formal setting when raising a question or doubt, especially in writing or business communication.

• She sent an email to query the invoice
• He had a query about the project's budget

Typically used in formal or legal contexts when conducting a thorough examination or study of an issue or situation.

• The police launched an investigation into the robbery
• The company conducted an internal investigation