The Difference Between Enquire and Inquire in English: When and How to Use Them Correctly

The words “enquire” [ɪnˈkwaɪə^r] and “inquire” [ɪnˈkwaɪə^r] are both used for asking questions or seeking information, but there are certain nuances in their usage that depend on context and region. The nouns derived from these verbs are “enquiry” and “inquiry,” which refer to a “request” or “investigation.”

In most cases, enquire is used for general inquiries, when it’s about a routine question or request for information. For instance, if someone wants to know the cost of services or goods:

• He enquired about the availability of tickets for the concert.

On the other hand, inquire is more often used in a formal context, where it refers to an official investigation or a serious request:

• The company initiated an inquiry into the safety practices at the factory.

However, in American English, inquire has become common for referring to any kind of inquiry, regardless of its formality. For example:

• She inquired about the opening hours of the museum.

Enquire is typically used for general inquiries, while inquire is suited for official investigations or more formal inquiries. Let’s delve deeper into their usage in English and the main differences.

Key Differences in Meaning Between Enquire and Inquire

Both words, enquiry and inquiry, originate from the Latin “inquirere” (to seek or ask), and both can mean “request,” “information seeking,” or “investigation.” However, there are some distinctions in meaning and context:

• Inquiry is typically used for official requests or investigations. It’s more commonly used in formal contexts. Example:
  • The government has launched an inquiry into the financial scandal.
• Enquiry is a broader term and can be used for any request, whether formal or informal. Example:
  • I made an enquiry about the opening hours of the museum.

Regional Differences in the Use of Enquire and Inquire

In British English, the verb enquire is more commonly used in everyday communication and is preferred for general inquiries about information. For example:

• I would like to enquire about the availability of rooms in your hotel.

Conversely, the verb inquire in British English is typically used in official or formal requests, particularly in the context of investigations or serious inquiries. For example:

• The police are inquiring into the cause of the accident.

In American English, the distinction between these two words nearly disappears. Inquire is more commonly used and applies to both general and official inquiries. Enquire is less common and rarely used. Examples from American English:

• She inquired about the new job openings.
• The committee will inquire into the matter.

Usage in Formal and Informal Contexts (Enquire and Inquire)

As noted above, in British English, enquire is used for everyday inquiries, while inquire is reserved for more formal or official situations. In American English, the difference is almost negligible, but for a more formal tone, it’s better to use inquire.

Examples:

• Enquire (informal context):
  • Could you enquire if the library is open today?
• Inquire (formal context):
  • The lawyer will inquire into the details of the case.

Derivatives of Enquire and Inquire

There are also derivative words from enquire and inquire, such as enquiry and inquiry (nouns). They follow the same usage rules as the corresponding verbs. In British English, enquiry is used for general requests, while inquiry is for formal investigations. In American English, inquiry is the dominant form used in both cases.

Examples:

• Enquiry (British English):
  • We received several enquiries about the product.
• Inquiry (American English):
  • The inquiry into the incident is still ongoing.

In summary, both enquire and inquire mean “to ask,” but their usage depends on context and region. In British English, enquire is used for informal inquiries, while inquire is for formal ones. In American English, inquire is used in most cases. Keep these differences in mind to use these words correctly in your speech and writing.