The idiom "inquire about" means to ask questions in order to gain more information about a particular topic or subject. When you inquire about something, you are expressing interest in learning more details.
In short:
'Inquire about' means to ask questions or seek information about a particular topic, person, or situation.
People use the idiom "inquire about" when they want to obtain information or ask questions about a specific subject, person, or situation. This phrase is common in both formal and informal contexts and is synonymous with asking questions, seeking clarification, and investigating something.
Depending on the context and the desired meaning, the idiom can be used in various ways, such as 'inquire into' or 'inquire after.'
The verb "inquire" has its origins in the Latin word inquīrō, which means "to seek for." It is composed of the prefix in-, meaning "in, at, on; into," and the root word quaerō, meaning "I seek, look for." This Latin term replaced the Middle English word enqueren, which came from the Old French enquerre, sharing the same etymology. On the other hand, the preposition "about" originates from the Old English onbūtan, meaning "around, round about." It is formed by combining on, meaning "on," and būtan, meaning "outside of."
"I begged the favour of my mother to go with her friend to inquire about these people whose names she was writing; and if she found them responsible and of good character. "
- The Memoirs of Capt. Peter Drake, 1755
The phrase "inquire about" has been in use since around 1300 and means to ask a question, ask for specific information, or seek information or knowledge.
Here are some examples of the phrase "inquire about" used in various contexts:
The phrase has appeared in various forms of media and pop culture:
There are several other ways to express the meaning of "inquire about" in English. Some of these alternatives include:
'Inquire about' means to ask questions or seek information about a particular topic, person, or situation.
The idiom "inquire about" comes from the Latin word 'inquirere,' meaning 'to seek for, search out, investigate, or examine.' The word 'inquire' entered the English language in the late 14th century.
You can use "inquire about" in a sentence to express that someone is asking questions or seeking information about a specific subject, person, or situation, such as, "I'm just checking in to inquire about the status of my loan, how is it going?"
Some synonyms for "inquire about" include ask about, seek information on, investigate, look into, probe into, query, question, find out about, research, and examine.
Yes, "inquire about" can be used in both formal and informal settings, depending on the context and the desired meaning.
Some common phrases that use "inquire about" include 'inquire into,' 'inquire after,' and 'inquire of.'
While "inquire about" is used in both American and British English, the spelling of 'inquire' may sometimes be written as 'enquire' in British English, though this variation is less common.
'Inquire about' can be used in a negative context if the information being sought is sensitive or controversial. For example, "The reporter inquired about the company's involvement in the scandal."
'Inquire about' is used for general questions or seeking information. 'Inquire into' is used when investigating or examining something more deeply. 'Inquire after' is used when asking about someone's well-being or condition. Choose the appropriate phrase based on the context and your intention.
Yes, "inquire about" can be used with different verb tenses, such as past (inquired about), present (inquires about), and future (will inquire about).
In summary, "inquire about" is an idiom that denotes asking questions or seeking information about a particular subject, person, or situation. This phrase is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings to express an interest in learning more details or obtaining clarification on a topic.
Key takeaways about the idiom "inquire about" include:
Understanding and using the idiom 'inquire about' in our daily conversations enables us to convey our intentions to seek information or clarification more effectively. It also allows us to enhance our communication skills and engage with others in a more meaningful way.
