a direct inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a direct inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a straightforward question or request for information. Example: "The researcher made a direct inquiry about the study's methodology to gain clarity on the results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Nowness is not simply newness, or the new: the question Twitter used to ask of users when they went to compose a tweet, "What's happening?" is a direct inquiry about the state of now.

The New Yorker

I am outraged that during all this time NIH has been completely silent--the only information I have received has been when I have made a direct inquiry.

Science Magazine

For example, the College of Arts and Sciences at Georgia State University has even built a direct inquiry page.

Huffington Post

Can we then engage in a direct inquiry into the nature of spirit-uality and its applicability in our daily life?

Huffington Post

He said that Obama told members of his national security team that July 2011 was the date "when a process begins...not the date when the U.S. heads for the exits... His comments drew a direct inquiry from White House officials, who sought and received reassurances that they were all in accord.

Huffington Post

A direct inquiry, modified from Dyck et al. (13), was made about typical symptoms of neuropathy.

Diabetes Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"We haven't received any pressure, any direct inquiry to do so," Naylor said, arguing that Orman was spinning a "fiction" that the race is a two-way one, rather than between four candidates.

Huffington Post

In this study, one patient did not admit to any symptoms until a positive test provoked further direct inquiry.

BMC Infectious Diseases

With respect to "Opum," in responding to a direct client inquiry, the sales associate confused the name with Optum Insight, which is a third party platform from United Health Group that we have integrated into our current offering and improves our ability to support benefits enrollment for our clients.

TechCrunch

Therefore, direct inquiry of these symptoms is important during evaluation of a child suspected of the rumination syndrome.

BMC Gastroenterology

On this account, Zou Yan's interests included both the "classical" learning of the Masters traditions and direct inquiry into natural phenomena, large and small.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a direct inquiry" when you want to emphasize the straightforward and unambiguous nature of a question or request. It suggests a clear and immediate approach to seeking information.

Common error

Avoid using "a direct inquiry" in contexts where sensitivity is required. While directness is valuable, ensure that the inquiry doesn't come across as insensitive or disrespectful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a direct inquiry" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb. It indicates a specific instance of asking a question or requesting information in a straightforward manner. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a direct inquiry" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a straightforward question or request for information. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While relatively uncommon, it appears in diverse contexts, with emphasis in News & Media and Scientific domains. When using this phrase, ensure that your directness is appropriate for the context and doesn't come across as insensitive. Consider alternatives like "a straightforward question" or "a clear request" for subtle variations in meaning. Finally, the phrase's register is considered neutral, making it fit for various communication settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward question

Focuses on the simplicity and clarity of the question.

a clear request

Emphasizes the unambiguous nature of the request.

a pointed question

Highlights the precision and relevance of the question.

a specific inquiry

Stresses the targeted nature of the investigation.

a precise interrogation

Conveys a more formal and detailed questioning.

a head-on investigation

Highlights the immediate nature of the investigation.

a blunt inquiry

Focuses on the direct and possibly insensitive nature of the question.

a straight question

Emphasizes the candid nature of the question.

a candid interrogation

Conveys a forthright and frank questioning.

a targeted request

Highlights the specified intention of the request.

FAQs

How can I use "a direct inquiry" in a sentence?

You can use "a direct inquiry" to describe a clear and straightforward question or request. For example, "The journalist made "a direct inquiry" to the CEO about the company's financial status".

What are some alternatives to "a direct inquiry"?

Alternatives include "a straightforward question", "a clear request", or "a specific inquiry", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to make "a direct inquiry" or an indirect one?

Whether a direct or indirect inquiry is better depends on the context. A direct inquiry is efficient for straightforward information, while an indirect inquiry might be more appropriate when dealing with sensitive topics or individuals.

What's the difference between "a direct inquiry" and "an investigation"?

"A direct inquiry" typically refers to a specific question or request for information, while "an investigation" is a more comprehensive and thorough examination of a matter. An investigation might involve many "direct inquiries".