Definition
to inquire (US), to enquire (UK): to ask, to investigate, to question, to query, to seek information
"Enquire" is generally used in British English, while "inquire" is used in American English. In British English, some make a distinction between "enquire" when asking for information, and "inquire" when conducting an investigation.
He inquired about the position's availability, but I had to tell him that the position had already been filled.
an inquiry: a question, a request; an investigation, a study
Pronunciation examples
UK: Hello sir. May I enquire what you're doing here?
US: I just wanted to make some inquiries.
- "If you have any urgent inquiries during my expedition in the Himalayas, please contact my special assistant, Brian Jones."
- "Icarus was also able to secure payment for the unpaid invoices you inquired about."
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