inquiry

Everyday

1. An inquiry is a question you ask to get information. tree →
2. An inquiry is an official investigation to find out the truth about something, such as an accident. tree →
3. In school science, inquiry is learning by asking questions and testing them. tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, «inquiry» or «enquiry» means asking a question and carrying out an investigation. In news, governments hold inquiries into disasters. In everyday life, shops have inquiry desks. Phrases: make an inquiry, an inquiry into, police inquiries, scientific inquiry.

Examples

• I made an inquiry about the price of the tickets. tree →
• The government held an inquiry into the train crash. tree →
• Our science inquiry asked: «Which ball bounces highest?» tree →
• Police are making inquiries about the stolen bike. tree →
• Ask at the inquiry desk for help. tree →
• Thank you for your inquiry; we will answer soon. tree →
• The inquiry found that the bridge was unsafe. tree →
• As regards the serious incidents further inquiry is needed. tree →

Note

Plural: inquiries (y → ies). Spelling: «inquiry» is usual in the USA; in the UK both «inquiry» (official investigation) and «enquiry» (asking a question) are used. Say: in-KWY-ree (UK) or IN-kwuh-ree (US). Verb: inquire / enquire.

In Jewish tradition

In science lessons, «inquiry» or «enquiry» means asking a question and carrying out an investigation. In news, governments hold inquiries into disasters. In everyday life, shops have inquiry desks. Phrases: make an inquiry, an inquiry into, police inquiries, scientific inquiry.

Examples

• It is a snare to a man rashly to say: 'Holy', and after vows to make inquiry. (Writings PRO.20.25, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Plural: inquiries (y → ies). Spelling: «inquiry» is usual in the USA; in the UK both «inquiry» (official investigation) and «enquiry» (asking a question) are used. Say: in-KWY-ree (UK) or IN-kwuh-ree (US). Verb: inquire / enquire.