Inquiry vs Enquiry
What’s the difference between them?
Inquiry
Meaning:
An inquiry is a formal request for information or a request for a formal investigation.
Examples:
1. I sent an inquiry to the university to get more information about the program.
2. The lawyer launched an inquiry into the company's financial activities.
3. The inquiry revealed that the company had been committing fraud for years.
Enquiry
Meaning:
Enquiry refers to all requests, both formal and informal.
Examples:
1. I sent an enquiry to the customer services team to find out more about the product.
2. We will be pleased to answer any enquiries you may have.
3. Please make any enquiries about this offer via email.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Inquiry
Investigation
query
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Enquiry
Question
query
There are no direct antonyms for this word.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Inquiry", "Enquiry".
1. Enquiry is a general term for a request for information, while inquiry specifically refers to a request for information or an investigation.
2. Enquiry can be thought of as a 'general' question, while inquiry is more likely to be a 'specific' question.
3. Enquiry tends to be more casual and inquiry tends to be more formal.
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Frequently asked questions
When to use the word 'Enquiry'?
'Enquiry' is generally used to refer to a request for information. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts. 'Enquiry' is often used in business, academic, or professional settings. It can also be used casually, like when asking for information from friends or family.
When to use the second word - 'Inquiry'?
Inquiry is usually used to refer to a specific or more focused request for information. It is used when asking questions about a specific area or subject, such as business, law, or finance. For example, 'I have an inquiry regarding the tax laws in my country.'
Do the words have the same pronunciation?
No, the two words have different pronunciations. The first word, inquiry, is pronounced /ɪnˈkwaɪəri/, while the second word, enquiry, is pronounced /enˈkwaɪəri/.
What are common mistakes associated with the words?
As the words have different pronunciations and different meanings, it is easy to make mistakes when using them. One of the most common mistakes is to use enquiry when referring to a specific, focused question, when the correct word should be inquiry. Another common mistake is to use inquiry when referring to a more general question, when the correct word should be enquiry.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I made an ___ to the travel agency to book a ticket.
2. He made an ___ into the companys financial records.
3. The police made a thorough ___ into the case.
4. She made an ___ to the university for more information.
5. The manager made an ___ about the missing documents.
6. She asked a lot of ___ when she applied for the job.
1. Answer: enquiry
Explanation: An enquiry is a general request for information.
2. Answer: inquiry
Explanation: An inquiry is a formal request into a particular matter.
3. Answer: inquiry
Explanation: An inquiry is a formal request into a particular matter.
4. Answer: enquiry
Explanation: An enquiry is a general request for information.
5. Answer: inquiry
Explanation: An inquiry is a formal request into a particular matter.
6. Answer: enquiries
Explanation: An enquiry is a general request for information.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.