a separate inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a separate inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an investigation or examination that is distinct from another matter or topic being discussed. Example: "The results of the initial study were inconclusive, prompting a separate inquiry into the underlying factors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A separate inquiry into solar glass is under way.

The Economist

On Wednesday, Kuwaiti legislators demanded a separate inquiry.

The New York Times

The Justice Department's inspector general is conducting a separate inquiry.

The New York Times

That case is a subject of a separate inquiry.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, a separate inquiry into HSBC's parent company remains open.

The Guardian

Collins goes even further and has called for a separate inquiry into Bin Hammam.

Independent

Meanwhile, a separate inquiry may look into comments made by Judge Greenberg.

Independent

(Scotland's different legal system makes the case for a separate inquiry there).

Independent

The district attorney, Patricia R. Lykos, has begun a separate inquiry.

The New York Times

The letters were handed to police, who are holding a separate inquiry.

Independent

It also referred complaints to the Justice Department for a separate inquiry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To highlight impartiality, use "an independent inquiry" as a stronger alternative to "a separate inquiry".

Common error

Avoid using "a separate inquiry" when the investigation is actually a direct continuation or expansion of an existing one. A "follow-up investigation" is more appropriate in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a separate inquiry" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase indicates that an investigation or examination is distinct from another, whether it be in terms of subject matter, scope, or administering body.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a separate inquiry" is a noun phrase that indicates an investigation distinct from another. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, as indicated by its common presence in News & Media. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what the inquiry is separate from. While alternatives like "an independent investigation" exist, "a separate inquiry" effectively communicates the distinct nature of an investigative process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an independent investigation

Emphasizes the autonomy and lack of connection to a previous investigation.

a distinct investigation

Highlights the unique nature and separation from other investigations.

an additional investigation

Focuses on the fact that this is another investigation, supplementing existing ones.

a parallel investigation

Indicates that the investigation is running alongside another, but is separate.

a secondary investigation

Implies that this investigation is of lesser importance or follows another.

a new investigation

Focuses on the freshness and initiation of the investigation.

an alternative investigation

Suggests that this investigation provides a different perspective or approach.

an exclusive investigation

Emphasizes that the investigation is limited to a specific matter or entity.

a discrete investigation

Highlights the confidentiality and subtlety of the investigation.

a follow-up investigation

Suggests that this investigation is a continuation or expansion of a previous one, while still being separate.

FAQs

How is "a separate inquiry" different from "a follow-up inquiry"?

"A separate inquiry" indicates a distinct investigation, independent of any previous ones. A "follow-up inquiry", on the other hand, builds upon a previous investigation, exploring new leads or information related to the initial case.

When should I use "a separate inquiry" versus "an independent investigation"?

Use "a separate inquiry" when emphasizing that an investigation is distinct from another, regardless of impartiality. Choose "an independent investigation" when you want to highlight the unbiased nature and autonomy of the inquiry.

What are some alternatives to "a separate inquiry" that emphasize its unique nature?

Alternatives like "a distinct investigation" or "an exclusive investigation" can emphasize the unique focus and scope of the inquiry.

Can "a separate inquiry" be conducted by the same organization as the original investigation?

Yes, "a separate inquiry" can be conducted by the same organization, as long as it addresses different aspects or concerns. However, to ensure impartiality, an "independent investigation" by an external body might be preferable.