be inquisitive about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be inquisitive about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to show curiosity or interest in a particular subject or topic. Example: "It's important to be inquisitive about the world around you to foster a love for learning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"You ought to be inquisitive about that.

The New York Times

"I'm going to try not to be inquisitive about it".

The Guardian

"If I was a mother, I would rather my child watch a video like that and not understand it and be inquisitive about what it means.

The Guardian - Music

Both brothers were fascinated by Asia, a favoured holiday destination, and the parents encouraged their sons to be inquisitive about the world: Alex was only 16, but had just returned from a six-month student exchange in Singapore.

The Guardian

Be inquisitive about what they are learning.

Huffington Post

Be inquisitive about which medications they use, whether they will prescribe more than one medication, and how they decide upon dosage adjustments.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Now, they are inquisitive about what the great bargains are out there.

The New York Times

Many of his clients are inquisitive about his ink, and being his own boss means he can dress as he pleases, but that wasn't always the case.

The Guardian

Currently we denigrate these folks as nerds, suggesting that there is something somehow odd about someone who is inquisitive about how nature works and willing to do the hard detail work to find out.

The New York Times

The sciences of speech divide into those that are significative of what is known (grammar) and those that are inquisitive about what is not known (logic and rhetoric) (DOS 468).

SEP

However David is "inquisitive" about the situation, but Kylie "brushes over" the hurt she really feels.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be inquisitive about", ensure the context provides a clear subject of inquiry to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "Be inquisitive about the local culture" is more effective than simply "Be inquisitive."

Common error

While appropriate in many settings, excessive use of "be inquisitive about" can sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "show curiosity about" or "express interest in", especially in formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be inquisitive about" is to act as a predicate adjective phrase, modifying a subject by describing a state of curiosity or a disposition to ask questions. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be inquisitive about" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that encourages curiosity and a desire for knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently enough in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian to be considered standard English. It's best used when promoting active questioning and deeper understanding, and its register is generally neutral, though it should be used judiciously in highly formal contexts, and might be better replaced by the variety of alternatives that one has at disposal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be curious about

A more direct and common synonym, emphasizing a general desire to know more.

show curiosity about

Focuses on demonstrating curiosity rather than just possessing it.

enquire about

A more formal way of asking or seeking information.

express interest in

Highlights the outward expression of interest, often more general than specific inquiry.

have a keen interest in

Emphasizes the intensity of the interest.

be interested in finding out

Highlights the active pursuit of information.

probe into

Suggests a more thorough and investigative approach.

delve into

Implies a deeper, more immersive exploration.

look closely at

Focuses on detailed examination, suggesting careful scrutiny.

investigate

Indicates a systematic and formal inquiry.

FAQs

How can I use "be inquisitive about" in a sentence?

You can use "be inquisitive about" to encourage someone to ask questions or learn more about a specific topic. For example, "It's important to "be inquisitive about" the world around you".

What are some alternatives to "be inquisitive about"?

Alternatives include "be curious about", "express interest in", or "show curiosity about" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "be inquisitive about" or "be curious about"?

Both phrases are correct, but "be curious about" is more common and generally applicable. "Be inquisitive about" suggests a more active and questioning approach.

When is it appropriate to use "be inquisitive about"?

It's appropriate in contexts where you want to encourage a deeper understanding or active questioning, particularly in educational or exploratory settings. Be mindful that there exist more formal and informal alternatives like "enquire about".