a painstaking inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

A painstaking inquiry into all the problems confronting the new nation laid the basis for a series of judicious recommendations to Congress in his first message.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In fact, as compelling and valuable as this book is, one fears that the sheer exertion by which the author makes his case may be daunting for those not already committed to such a painstaking inquiry.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

16 It has to be investigated by a more painstaking inquiry.

British Medical Journal

They know that what they are resisting was recommended by the judge after a painstaking public inquiry.

The Guardian - Opinion

This change of heart follows a painstaking independent inquiry into sadistic and sexual abuse of up to 350 children at Shieldfield Nursery by a young male nursery nurse, Chris Lillie, and his colleague Dawn Reid.

The Guardian

For the past seven years, the British government has done something the Obama administration opted against, mounting a painstaking official inquiry into the origins and conduct of the Iraq War.

Huffington Post

Painstaking inquiries were conducted on a mass of data from pre-paid credit cards, email addresses, flight records and mobile phones to prove Osolase was involved in smuggling the girls to Britain.

Independent

During a two-day hearing at Windsor, Bedford heard that painstaking inquiries by detectives and forensic scientists had unearthed no evidence of murder.

The Guardian

The inquest heard that he became deeply depressed and suicidal, asking his son Artem how he could choke himself to death and demanding of his bodyguard: "Should I jump or should I cut my vein?" During a two-day hearing at Windsor, Bedford heard that painstaking inquiries by detectives and forensic scientists had unearthed no evidence of murder.

The Guardian

The interview, likely to take place in Mr Hain's Wales constituency rather than at a London police station, comes after weeks of witness statements and painstaking inquiries.

Independent

Whatever you think of his conclusions, Lord Justice Leveson's inquiry was a painstaking and serious examination of the press.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "a painstaking inquiry" with a clear statement of purpose. Describing what the inquiry is intended to achieve will give context to the work done.

Common error

While "a painstaking inquiry" is appropriate in many contexts, avoid using it too frequently in the same piece of writing. Vary your language with synonyms like "a thorough investigation" or "a detailed analysis" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a painstaking inquiry" functions as a noun phrase, where "painstaking" modifies the noun "inquiry". It describes a specific type of investigation that is characterized by thoroughness and attention to detail. Ludwig shows examples in various contexts, highlighting its descriptive capability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a painstaking inquiry" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that effectively describes a thorough and meticulous investigation. Ludwig confirms its correctness and provides real-world examples from reputable sources. While its usage is relatively rare, it is suitable for both neutral and formal contexts. Alternatives such as "a thorough investigation" or "a meticulous examination" may be used to avoid repetition or provide slightly different nuances. The phrase is most frequently encountered in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly indicates the depth and rigor of the investigation being described.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a thorough investigation

Emphasizes the comprehensiveness of the investigation.

a meticulous examination

Highlights the attention to detail and precision involved.

a detailed analysis

Focuses on the depth and granularity of the analysis.

a rigorous study

Implies a high standard of scientific or academic scrutiny.

an exhaustive review

Suggests that all aspects have been considered.

a comprehensive assessment

Focuses on evaluating all relevant factors.

a scrupulous investigation

Emphasizes moral integrity and carefulness.

an in-depth probe

Highlights the intensity and focus of the investigation.

a diligent inquiry

Highlights the effort and care put into the inquiry.

a minute examination

Focuses on very small details.

FAQs

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

You can use "a painstaking inquiry" to describe any thorough investigation or examination. For example: "The police conducted "a painstaking inquiry" into the fraud allegations".

What is a good alternative to "a painstaking inquiry"?

Alternatives to "a painstaking inquiry" include "a thorough investigation", "a meticulous examination", or "a detailed analysis". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What distinguishes "a painstaking inquiry" from "a simple investigation"?

"A painstaking inquiry" implies a higher degree of thoroughness, care, and attention to detail compared to a simple investigation. The term "painstaking" emphasizes the effort and dedication involved.

When is it appropriate to use the term "painstaking"?

Use "painstaking" when you want to highlight the effort, care, and meticulousness involved in a process or task. It's particularly suitable when describing work that requires great attention to detail and perseverance.