Inquest: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in legal contexts where there is a formal investigation into the cause of someone's death.

• The coroner held an inquest into the unexpected death of the celebrity.
• The family called for an inquest after discovering new evidence.

Used broadly in contexts where there is a systematic and detailed search for facts, commonly in criminal or scientific scenarios.

• The police opened an investigation into the burglary.
• The team's investigation led to a breakthrough in the case.

Commonly used when seeking information or asking questions, often formally, to discover facts.

• The government launched an inquiry into the mismanagement of funds.
• There will be an inquiry to determine the cause of the accident.

Used in contexts where something or someone is being looked at or studied carefully, often in academic or medical situations.

• The doctor conducted a thorough examination of the patient.
• The examination of the ancient manuscript revealed new insights.