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inquiry

IN-kwuh-ree /ˈɪnkwəri/

nounB2TOEFLIELTS

generalformal

An act of asking for information; an official investigation.

In a scientific context, 'inquiry' refers to the active process of exploring the natural or material world, and proposing explanations based on evidence derived from that exploration. It emphasizes questioning and investigation.

The story behind the word. The word 'inquiry' comes from the Latin verb 'inquirere,' meaning 'to seek into, to examine, to search for.' This verb is formed from 'in-' (into) and 'quaerere' (to seek, to ask). So, an inquiry is literally the act of 'seeking into' a matter, reflecting a deep and often formal process of investigation and questioning to gain knowledge or understanding.

Word relationships

investigation: Investigation is a systematic search for facts or information; inquiry is often broader, encompassing the entire process of questioning and seeking knowledge.
query: Query is a specific question; inquiry is the act or process of asking questions or seeking information.
exploration: Exploration involves discovering new things; inquiry is the process of questioning and seeking to understand.

ignorance: Lack of knowledge or information.
dogma: A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.

Word family

inquire (verb): To ask for information from someone.
inquirer (noun): A person who asks for information.

Collocations

scientific inquiry
public inquiry
formal inquiry
parliamentary inquiry
spirit of inquiry

Idioms & expressions

make an inquiry

Example sentences

"The police launched a full inquiry into the mysterious disappearance of the ancient artifact." Scientific inquiry drives discovery and understanding.
"His lifelong passion for scientific inquiry led him to explore some of the most challenging questions in physics." Encouraging inquiry is vital for education.

Memory hook

Imagine an 'INK' (in) pen writing a 'QUERY' (inquiry) on a scroll, representing a formal question or investigation. INK-QUERY: Seek information.

When not to use

While 'inquiry' can mean a simple question, in a formal or scientific context, it implies a more systematic and often extensive process of seeking knowledge or information.

Fun facts

Socratic inquiry, a method of teaching by asking questions, is a classic example of fostering a spirit of inquiry.