Enquiry

Definition

Enquiry is a noun that refers to the act of asking for information or conducting an investigation into a particular matter. It is commonly used in British English, whereas the American English equivalent is "inquiry."

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkwaɪəri/
• Respelling: in-KWY-uh-ree

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈkwaɪəri/
• Respelling: in-KWY-uh-ree

Etymology

The word "enquiry" originates from the Old French "enquerre," which came from the Latin "inquirere," meaning "to seek" or "to ask about." "Inquirere" is derived from "in-" (into) and "quaerere" (to seek or ask). The spelling "enquiry" is more commonly used in British English, whereas "inquiry" is generally preferred in American English.

Derivatives

• Enquire (verb)
• Enquirer (noun)
• Enquiring (adjective)
• Enquirement (noun, rare)
• Enquirable (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Question
• Investigation
• Examination

Antonyms

• Answer
• Response
• Conclusion

Usage

The noun "enquiry" is widely used in British English to refer to the process of seeking information, such as in "The customer made an enquiry about the product's availability." It can also refer to a formal investigation, as in "A public enquiry was launched into the matter."

Related Terms

• Inquiry: The American English equivalent of "enquiry," with the same meaning.
• Investigation: A detailed examination or study of something to uncover facts.
• Research: Systematic investigation to establish facts or principles.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An act of asking for information: Refers to a question or request made to acquire knowledge about a subject.
  • Example: "He made an enquiry regarding the course fees."
• An investigation or formal examination: Describes a systematic or official process of gathering information on a topic, often in a legal or formal setting.
  • Example: "The government launched an enquiry into the incident."