# inquire

/ˌɪnˈkwaɪɹ/ (US) · /ɪnkwˈaɪə/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inquire
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. to ask for information

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to ask someone for information about something.

For teachers: to seek information by questioning; often used with 'about', 'after', or 'into'.

- I called the hotel to inquire about the price of a double room.
- The journalist contacted the press office to inquire about the recent changes to the company's environmental policy.

Usage: Commonly followed by the prepositions 'about' (for general info) or 'after' (for someone's health).

### 2. to investigate

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal · Academic

to look into something carefully to find the truth or the facts.

For teachers: to conduct a formal investigation or systematic study into a matter.

- A special committee was formed to inquire into the cause of the accident.
- The commission was mandated to inquire into the systemic failures that led to the financial crisis.

Usage: Typically takes the preposition 'into' when referring to a formal investigation.

Teaching tip: In British English, 'enquire' is often used for general asking, while 'inquire' is reserved for formal investigations; in American English, 'inquire' is used for both.

## Examples

- I called the shop to inquire about their opening hours.
- The detective arrived at the scene to inquire whether anyone had seen the suspect leaving the building.
- Prospective students are encouraged to inquire regarding the availability of financial aid before submitting their final applications to the university registrar.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.