enquire about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'enquire about' is an acceptable phrase used in written English.
You can use this phrase to generally ask for information from someone or something. For example: I need to enquire about the cost of the product before I make a purchase.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

When asked, the women generally stated that healthcare personnel should not be afraid to enquire about previous experiences of abuse.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

These results emphasise that when assessing a client's history, clinicians should routinely enquire about victimisation experiences in schizophrenia-spectrum patients.

BMC Psychiatry

I enquire about the unusual choice of colour.

The Guardian - Travel

The Post did, however, enquire about Joe Biden's favorability.

The Guardian - Opinion

He could meet people a decade later and enquire about their family.

Independent

"I was hurt," he says when I enquire about his feelings toward his team's quarterback.

The Guardian - Sport

I skipped an Italian class and went to the British consulate to enquire about jobs.

The Guardian - Money

I enquire about her children and she gives the briefest details.

The Guardian - Books

To enquire about event sponsorship opportunities only contact PetraTwistedTree.co.uk.co.uk

TechCrunch

To enquire about sponsorship opportunities only contact PetraTwistedTree.co.uk.co.uk

TechCrunch

We therefore directed our fieldwork to enquire about operator judgements in these areas.

Journal of Industrial Engineering International

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "enquire about" when you need to formally ask for information or investigate a matter. It conveys a more professional tone than simply "ask about".

Common error

Avoid using "enquire about" in very casual conversations. In informal settings, phrases like "ask about" or "check on" are often more appropriate and sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "enquire about" functions as a phrasal verb, serving to introduce a question or a request for information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

42%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "enquire about" is a versatile phrasal verb used to formally ask for information or initiate an investigation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. While it appears most frequently in scientific and news-related contexts, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it is generally suitable for professional and formal communications. When writing, remember that simpler alternatives like "ask about" might be more appropriate for casual settings. Use "enquire about" when you need a more formal and respectful tone. Common related phrases include "ask questions regarding" and "make inquiries concerning". Keep these guidelines in mind to ensure your writing remains clear, appropriate, and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ask questions regarding

Focuses on the act of posing questions related to a specific topic.

make inquiries concerning

Highlights the formal process of investigating or asking about something.

seek information regarding

Emphasizes the active search for specific details or knowledge.

investigate details of

Implies a more thorough and detailed examination of a particular subject.

probe into

Suggests a deeper and more thorough investigation, often into sensitive or hidden matters.

look into

Implies a less formal investigation or examination.

check on

Focuses on verifying the status or condition of something or someone.

research the subject of

Emphasizes a systematic and academic approach to gathering information.

query the matter of

Highlights the act of formally questioning or challenging a particular issue.

examine the specifics of

Implies a careful and detailed review of particular aspects or elements.

FAQs

What is the difference between "enquire about" and "ask about"?

"Enquire about" is generally considered more formal than "ask about". Use "enquire about" in professional or official contexts where a more polite and respectful tone is necessary. In casual settings, "ask about" is perfectly acceptable.

How can I use "enquire about" in a sentence?

You can use "enquire about" to ask for information. For example, "I need to enquire about the availability of rooms" or "She called to enquire about the status of her application".

What are some synonyms for "enquire about"?

Some synonyms for "enquire about" include "ask questions regarding", "make inquiries concerning", and "seek information regarding". The choice depends on the context and the level of formality required.

Is "enquire about" appropriate for all types of writing?

While "enquire about" is generally correct, it is best suited for formal and professional writing. In informal or personal communications, consider using simpler alternatives like "ask about" to maintain a natural and conversational tone.