TOP

Definition of inquire verb from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

 

inquire

 verb
(also enquire) verb
NAmE//ɪnˈkwaɪər//
 
[intransitive, transitive] (rather formal)Verb Forms present simple I / you / we / they inquire he / she / it inquires past simple inquired -ing form inquiring
 
jump to other results
to ask someone for some information inquire (about somebody/something) I called the school to inquire about the application process. inquire (as to somebody/something) She inquired as to your whereabouts. inquire why, where, etc… He inquired why you were so late. inquire something He inquired her name. + speech “What is your name?” he inquired. Thesaurusask
  • inquire
  • demand
These words all mean to say or write something in the form of a question, in order to get information.
  • ask to say or write something in the form of a question, in order to get information:“Where are you going?” she asked. She asked the students their names. Can I ask a question?
  • inquire (somewhat formal) to ask someone for information:I am writing to inquire about the research position. May I inquire who's calling, please?(= on the telephone)
  • demand to ask a question very firmly:The client demanded an explanation. “I demand to know who wrote this,” he said.
Patterns
  • to ask/inquire about/after somebody/something
  • to ask/demand something of somebody
  • to ask/inquire/demand to know what/who/how, etc.
  • to ask/inquire politely
  • to ask/inquire/demand angrily
 Phrasal Verbsinquire afterinquire intoinquire of
Check pronunciation: inquire

Nearby words