A comprehensive inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "A comprehensive inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a thorough investigation or examination of a particular subject or issue. Example: "The researchers conducted a comprehensive inquiry into the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

David Cameron stepped up demands for a comprehensive inquiry into the government lobbying row today.

The Guardian

But the Greens want to see a comprehensive inquiry in light of the fish kill.

The Guardian

It was Ratzinger, as Pope Benedict, who banished Maciel to a monastery and ordered a comprehensive inquiry into his order.

The New York Times

Rowland said there had not been a comprehensive inquiry into ownership, concentration and competition in the Australian media market since the late 1990s.

The Guardian

Sorry Day marks the tabling of the Bringing Them Home Report in 1997, a comprehensive inquiry into the racist history of forced removal of Aboriginal children.

The Guardian - Opinion

She is the 17th person to be arrested since police opened a comprehensive inquiry into accusations that the newspaper had hacked the messages of almost 6,000 celebrities and newsworthy figures between 2001 and 2009 in search of scoops.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Since the brief hearings by the joint intelligence committees of Congress were nearing an end, Mr. Calio wrote, a more comprehensive inquiry was appropriate.

The New York Times

She said: "Their experience of the miners' strike was used as a positive indicator of their ability to police large crowds".An early day motion asking for the director of public prosecutions to deliver a full comprehensive inquiry into the policing of the miners' strike has so far attracted the support of 39 MPs.

The Guardian

In the following, we will therefore conduct what we see as a more comprehensive inquiry into how humans (intermediaries) are when they intermediate, and, on that basis, discuss what it is to intermediate wisely.

Triple Helix

The MPs are calling for a "full, comprehensive inquiry into the policing of the miners' strike throughout the UK to ensure the miners, their families and communities finally receive the justice they deserve".

BBC

"People like the Dowler family and other members of the public who are the innocent victims of phone hacking deserve a full and comprehensive inquiry.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a comprehensive inquiry" when you want to emphasize the depth, breadth, and thoroughness of an investigation or examination, making it clear that no stone will be left unturned.

Common error

Avoid using "a comprehensive inquiry" when the scope is limited or the investigation is only preliminary. Ensure the inquiry genuinely aims to be exhaustive and covers all relevant aspects.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a comprehensive inquiry" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb, such as "launch", "demand", or "conduct". It refers to the act of investigating something in a thorough and complete manner, as evidenced by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a comprehensive inquiry" is a noun phrase indicating a thorough and complete investigation. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's commonly found in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources, suggesting a professional or neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the intended investigation genuinely aims for exhaustiveness. Alternatives include "a thorough investigation" or "an exhaustive examination", as seen in related phrases. Considering these aspects will contribute to the effective and accurate usage of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A thorough investigation

Focuses on the depth and detail of the investigation.

An exhaustive examination

Emphasizes the completeness and detail of the examination.

A detailed review

Highlights the level of detail involved in the review.

A complete assessment

Stresses the overall nature and conclusiveness of the evaluation.

An in-depth analysis

Suggests a deep and penetrating analysis of the subject matter.

A wide-ranging study

Indicates that the study covers a broad scope of topics.

A holistic evaluation

Highlights a consideration of the whole system or subject.

A far-reaching probe

Implies an extensive and impactful investigation.

A sweeping investigation

Suggests an investigation that covers a wide area or range.

An all-encompassing study

Emphasizes the breadth and inclusivity of the study.

FAQs

What does "a comprehensive inquiry" mean?

It refers to a thorough, complete, and in-depth investigation or examination of a particular issue, situation, or event.

How is "a comprehensive inquiry" different from a simple investigation?

While a simple investigation might focus on specific aspects, "a comprehensive inquiry" aims to cover all relevant angles, details, and perspectives to provide a complete understanding. Alternatives include "a thorough investigation" or "an exhaustive examination".

When is it appropriate to call for "a comprehensive inquiry"?

It is appropriate when there is a need for a deep and thorough understanding of a complex issue, especially when the issue has significant implications or involves multiple stakeholders.

What are some alternatives to "a comprehensive inquiry"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a detailed review", "a complete assessment", or "an in-depth analysis".