Inquire

To ask for information.

Reach for it when describing a courteous effort to learn a specific fact

Visitors may inquire about step-free routes at the front desk.

• everyday

  ask

  plain speech needs a direct question

  not when Ask is broad and can request action rather than information.

• professional

  question

  several targeted questions test an account

  not when Question can sound skeptical or accusatory when the inquiry is neutral.

• formal

  request information

  an official process needs explicit wording

  not when The phrase is procedural and loses the personal courtesy of inquire.

To examine a matter in order to discover facts.

Reach for it when naming a deliberate investigation rather than one question

The panel will inquire into why the warning was not forwarded.

• everyday

  look into

  an informal promise to investigate suits the exchange

  not when Look into can sound noncommittal and gives no scope or method.

• professional

  investigate

  facts must be systematically gathered and tested

  not when Investigate is stronger and may imply suspected wrongdoing.

• formal

  examine

  evidence or a subject receives close attention

  not when Examine may stop at analysis without seeking new facts.

• answer
• ignore
• disregard

• inquire about

  Please inquire about captioning when you reserve the hall.

• inquire further

  The editor chose to inquire further before repeating the claim.

• inquire into

  A separate committee will inquire into the procurement delay.

• Inquiring adj.