B1verb formal 10K+

Inquire

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɪnˈkwaɪə(r)/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɪnˈkwaɪər/"]/

Meaning of Inquire

to ask somebody for some information

In simple words: to ask about something

Inquire in a sentence

• I called the school to inquire about the application process.
• She inquired as to your whereabouts.
• He inquired why you were so late.
• He inquired her name.
• ‘What is your name?’ he inquired.

How to use Inquire

Use 'inquire' in formal contexts, such as business or official situations. It's less common in everyday conversation, where 'ask' is preferred. Avoid using it in informal settings.

Grammar pattern

inquire + about + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'inquire' — imagine you are 'inquiring' at a front desk.

Related words

Collocations with Inquire

• inquire about
• inquire into
• inquire if
• inquire regarding
• inquire as to

Synonyms for Inquire

• ask
• query
• investigate
• probe
• question

Opposites of Inquire

• ignore
• disregard
• ignore

Common mistakes with Inquire

• Using 'inquire' instead of 'require'.
• Confusing 'inquire' with 'enquire' (especially in British English).
• Using 'inquire' without a specific subject (e.g., 'I want to inquire the details' instead of 'I want to inquire about the details').

Frequently asked questions about Inquire

What does Inquire mean?

to ask about something

What is the definition of Inquire?

to ask somebody for some information

How do you use Inquire in a sentence?

I called the school to inquire about the application process.

Can you give another example of Inquire?

She inquired as to your whereabouts.

What are synonyms for Inquire?

Common alternatives include ask, query, investigate, probe, question.

What is the opposite of Inquire?

Opposite meanings include ignore, disregard, ignore.

What words go with Inquire?

It commonly pairs with inquire about, inquire into, inquire if, inquire regarding, inquire as to.

What are common mistakes when using Inquire?

Using 'inquire' instead of 'require'. Confusing 'inquire' with 'enquire' (especially in British English). Using 'inquire' without a specific subject (e.g., 'I want to inquire the details' instead of 'I want to inquire about the details').

How do you pronounce Inquire?

US: /["/ɪnˈkwaɪər/"]/, UK: /["/ɪnˈkwaɪə(r)/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Inquire formal or informal?

"Inquire" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Inquire?

Use 'inquire' in formal contexts, such as business or official situations. It's less common in everyday conversation, where 'ask' is preferred. Avoid using it in informal settings.

What CEFR level is Inquire?

"Inquire" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.