complex inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In just one tangent of the complex inquiry, Mr. Ianieri's company hired the lobbying firm of Mr. Murtha's brother Kit.

The New York Times

It gave provisional approval to the takeover in October and said it had since taken extra time to study objections to the deal in a complex inquiry.

The Guardian - Business

The SFO has been investigating alleged Libor rigging since 2012 and has been given additional funds to pursue this complex inquiry by the chancellor, George Osborne.

The Guardian - Business

"This complex inquiry is going back over police contact with Fiona Pilkington, her daughter and neighbours over a period of several years.

The Guardian

Three months later, having not had a response, he contacted the FA, believing the delay meant a long, complex inquiry must be under way.

The Guardian - Sport

The HPA's south-east regional director, Graham Bickler, said the "complex" inquiry confirmed the "well-known risks that raw shellfish pose".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Some of these are complex inquiries where tenants are receiving the wrong benefit or require support through an appeal process.

The Guardian

Sullivan, who retired from the Secret Service in February, has extensive experience leading complex inquiries, having overseen criminal investigations during his time at the agency.

The New York Times - Sports

Allstate, for instance, has built an AI-powered digital assistant that supports reps by retrieving information during service interactions saving them time that would otherwise be spent rooting around knowledge bases for answers to callers' sometimes arcane and complex inquiries.

Harvard Business Review

In that regard, public sector agencies in Australia are ahead of the curve: They are using digital agents to handle complex inquiries from citizens, and businesses stand to learn much from these applications.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Parents, it seems, have always struggled to answer such tricky questions as: "how was the world made?", "what is death?", "why do wars happen?" and "can I have some money, please?" To explain the first three, and other complex inquiries, they had recourse to myths and legends.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "complex inquiry", ensure that the complexity is evident in the context. Provide details that showcase the depth and multifaceted nature of the investigation or examination.

Common error

Avoid using "complex inquiry" when the investigation is relatively straightforward. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility when describing truly intricate matters.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complex inquiry" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "complex" modifies the noun "inquiry". Ludwig examples show it referring to multifaceted investigations or examinations. The AI confirms it's a grammatically sound and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

27%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "complex inquiry" is a commonly used phrase to describe investigations or examinations that are detailed, multifaceted, and require thorough analysis. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It appears most frequently in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the complexity is evident in the context to maintain credibility. Consider alternatives such as "detailed investigation" or "intricate investigation" for nuanced variations. Avoid overstating the complexity to prevent diminishing its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intricate investigation

Replaces 'complex' with 'intricate', emphasizing the detailed and elaborate nature of the investigation.

detailed investigation

Replaces 'complex' with 'detailed', focusing on the thoroughness of the investigation.

complicated investigation

Uses 'complicated' instead of 'complex', highlighting the intricate and potentially confusing nature of the investigation.

thorough examination

Shifts from 'inquiry' to 'examination', emphasizing a comprehensive and careful review.

in-depth analysis

Replaces 'inquiry' with 'analysis', highlighting a deeper and more analytical approach.

extensive study

Uses 'study' instead of 'inquiry', emphasizing the research-oriented nature of the investigation.

elaborate probe

Substitutes 'complex' with 'elaborate' and 'inquiry' with 'probe', implying a thorough and detailed investigation.

sophisticated investigation

Replaces 'complex' with 'sophisticated', suggesting an advanced and nuanced approach to the inquiry.

multifaceted investigation

Uses 'multifaceted' to describe the inquiry, highlighting the many aspects and perspectives involved.

wide-ranging inquiry

Emphasizes the broad scope and comprehensive nature of the inquiry.

FAQs

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

You can use "complex inquiry" to describe a detailed and multifaceted investigation, as in "The government launched a "complex inquiry" into the financial irregularities."

What are some alternatives to "complex inquiry"?

Alternatives include "detailed investigation", "intricate investigation", or "thorough examination", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "very complex inquiry"?

While not strictly redundant, "very complex inquiry" can be seen as emphatic. Consider whether the "complex" nature is already implied, or if the "very" adds significant value. Often, the phrase "complex inquiry" is sufficient on its own.

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

A "complex inquiry" involves multiple layers of investigation, numerous involved parties, and potentially obscure or conflicting data. It usually requires a significant investment of time and resources, unlike a more straightforward investigation.