Inquirer

A person who asks for information or investigates a question.

Reach for it when describing someone defined by a current inquiry rather than permanent expertise

Each inquirer received the same records and a named contact for follow-up.

• everyday

  questioner

  the person's role is asking questions

  not when Questioner can imply challenge or cross-examination rather than open inquiry.

• warm

  seeker

  the search for understanding has a personal or philosophical tone

  not when Seeker may suggest a spiritual quest when the request is merely practical.

• professional

  investigator

  systematic fact-finding is the assigned task

  not when Investigator suggests authority and a formal case.

• professional

  researcher

  sustained methodical study produces knowledge

  not when A researcher does more than ask and may never contact another person.

• literary

  interlocutor

  the person participates thoughtfully in a dialogue

  not when An interlocutor exchanges ideas and need not be seeking information.

• respondent
• answerer
• bystander

• serious inquirer

  A serious inquirer distinguishes an unanswered question from a hidden answer.

• prospective inquirer

  Each prospective inquirer can read the archive guide before requesting material.

• curious inquirer

  The curious inquirer traced the maker's mark through three catalogs.