May I inquire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "May I inquire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when politely asking for information or clarification on a specific topic. Example: "May I inquire about the status of my application?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Nancy, Judith's sassy, promiscuous best friend, who's a journalist, has this to say about the Courtney Logans of the world: "May I inquire precisely why we went through a revolution in women's rights, why we bothered to have our consciences raised?

The New York Times - Books

Once he started at 10 30 in the morning to sentence a parole violator to a year in prison and was still going strong at 2 30 in the afternoon, when the defense attorney got up and said, "May I inquire whether this is a sentence or a filibuster?" View Article By Anthony Lane By Rebecca Mead By Jia Tolentino By Andy Borowitz.

The New Yorker

I realize it's improper to ask, but may I inquire, dear reader, as to how old you are?

Huffington Post

She asked, "May I inquire what this is about?" I replied, "It is very confidential, and the bank manager will appreciate why I want to talk specifically with her".

Huffington Post

"May I inquire about your communal baths?" is one gambit.

The New Yorker

"May I inquire after your state of mind?" "Do you feel better about that email?" Jay stared out for so long that I thought I'd made him angry.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"Any accidents?" I inquire.

The Guardian

What kind?" I inquire.

The Guardian

"What is it?" I inquire.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Is it a comedy?" I inquire delicately.

The Guardian - Books

I was never consulted, nor did I inquire.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "May I inquire" when you want to sound particularly polite and formal, especially in professional settings or when addressing someone of higher status.

Common error

Avoid using "May I inquire" in casual conversations, as it can sound overly formal or even pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "Can I ask" or "Could you tell me" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "May I inquire" functions as an interrogative expression, specifically a polite formula for introducing a question. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase initiates a request for information in a respectful manner.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "May I inquire" is a polite and formal phrase used to introduce a question or request for information. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is grammatically correct and is particularly suitable for professional or respectful contexts. While it's effective for creating a tone of deference, avoid using it in casual conversations where it might sound overly formal. Consider alternatives like "May I ask" or "Could you tell me" for less formal situations. The phrase appears most often in news media and scientific publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

May I ask

Direct synonym, simpler and slightly less formal.

Could I ask

Polite question, similar in formality but uses "could" instead of "may".

Might I inquire

More formal and less common variant.

Would you mind telling me

Indirect and very polite way of asking.

I would like to know

More direct and slightly less formal request for information.

Can I ask

Less formal version using "can" instead of "may".

I'm curious to know

Expresses curiosity and invites information.

I was wondering

Introduces a question politely and indirectly.

Could you tell me

A direct but polite way to request information.

I'd like to ask

Slightly more casual way to introduce a question.

FAQs

What does "May I inquire" mean?

The phrase "May I inquire" is a polite and formal way of asking a question or seeking information. It is often used in situations where you want to show respect or deference.

When is it appropriate to use "May I inquire"?

It's best to use "May I inquire" in formal settings such as professional correspondence, meetings, or when speaking to someone you don't know well or someone in a position of authority. In casual settings, consider using a more relaxed phrase such as "May I ask".

Are there synonyms for "May I inquire" that are less formal?

Yes, some less formal alternatives include "Can I ask", "Could I ask", or "I'd like to ask". These options are suitable for more casual conversations and relationships.

How does "May I inquire" differ from "May I ask"?

While both phrases are polite ways to ask a question, "May I inquire" is generally considered more formal and refined than "May I ask". "May I inquire" suggests a more deliberate and thoughtful approach to seeking information.