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inquiry

in-KWAI-uh-ree /ɪnˈkwaɪə.ri/

nounB2GRESATIELTSTOEFL

academicformal

An act of asking for information, an official investigation, or the systematic pursuit of knowledge through questioning.

Emphasizes active questioning and open-minded investigation.

The story behind the word. Formed from Latin 'in-' (into) and 'quaerere' (to seek, ask, or search). In Latin, 'inquirere' meant to search into or investigate closely. This root also gave us 'question', 'quest', and 'require'.

Word relationships

investigation: 'Investigation' implies a focused search for specific hidden facts, whereas 'inquiry' can be a broad philosophical or educational exploration.
scrutiny: 'Scrutiny' means critical inspection, whereas 'inquiry' is the broader process of asking and searching.

dogmatism: Accepting fixed claims without asking questions.
indifference: Lack of curiosity or interest in asking questions.

Commonly confused with

inquisition: 'Inquisition' carries severe connotations of harsh, punitive interrogation, whereas 'inquiry' is neutral or constructive seeking of knowledge.

Word family

quire (verb): To ask or inquire (archaic).
inquiring (adjective): Showing curiosity or asking questions.
inquisitive (adjective): Curious, inquiring.

Collocations

inquiry-based learning
scientific inquiry
conduct an inquiry
line of inquiry

Example sentences

"Scientific progress relies on free inquiry and the willingness to challenge established beliefs." Scientific research

Memory hook

INQUIRY = IN-QUEST: going into a quest for questions. INQUIRY = active quest for questions.

When not to use

Do not use to describe passive absorption of facts.

Fun facts

Inquiry-based learning was popularized by philosopher John Dewey, who argued that children learn best when acting like young scientists.