launch an inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

'launch an inquiry' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe the beginning of a formal investigation into a specific issue. For example, "The government announced that they would launch an inquiry into the recent allegations of corruption."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He also wants the Electoral Commission to launch an inquiry into the "wider public interest issues".

The Economist

Major League Baseball hired George Mitchell, a former senator, to launch an inquiry into doping.

The Economist

It is not believed, however, that the government will launch an inquiry.

The Guardian - Tech

The commission "should launch an inquiry into whether he's lobbying or not," Mr. Horner said.

The New York Times

I will also launch an inquiry to determine why this change occurred".

The New York Times

It is unusual for the S.E.C. to launch an inquiry into a public pension fund.

The New York Times

HM Revenue & Customs is facing increasing pressure to launch an inquiry into the sportswear retailer.

The Guardian - Business

So then to launch an inquiry based on information we had given, I was disappointed.

The Guardian - Business

The Air Accidents Investigations Branch said it would launch an inquiry.

The Guardian - Tech

The government also promised to launch an inquiry into missing and murdered aboriginal women.

The Guardian

Word of the investigation comes approximately a week before an internal deadline to launch an inquiry.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "launch an inquiry", ensure the context clearly indicates who is initiating the inquiry and what the scope of the investigation will be.

Common error

Avoid using "launch an inquiry" when a simple information request or informal discussion is sufficient. Reserve it for situations requiring formal investigation and potential action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launch an inquiry" functions as a verb phrase used to describe the initiation of a formal investigation. Ludwig AI confirms this is a valid and usable expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "launch an inquiry" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the start of a formal investigation. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is appropriate for use in written English. It's most frequently found in News & Media contexts, suggesting a neutral to professional tone. Remember to clearly specify who is initiating the inquiry and its scope. Alternatives include "initiate an investigation" or "commence a probe".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate an investigation

Replaces 'inquiry' with 'investigation', focusing on a more formal and thorough process.

open an investigation

Emphasizes the beginning of a process to find and examine information related to a crime.

commence a probe

Uses 'probe' instead of 'inquiry', implying a deeper search for information.

establish a commission

Suggests forming a dedicated body to investigate, rather than a general inquiry.

order a review

Highlights the act of instructing a formal evaluation or inspection.

undertake a review

Implies a more comprehensive assessment or examination of the matter.

instigate an examination

Focuses on starting a detailed and careful inspection.

set up a fact-finding mission

Emphasizes the goal of discovering facts and truth through investigation.

conduct an audit

Suggests a systematic review, often in financial or procedural contexts.

start a fact-finding process

Emphasizes the beginning of a method used to discover the truth and essential information about something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "launch an inquiry"?

To "launch an inquiry" means to formally begin an investigation into a particular matter, often involving gathering information and evidence.

When is it appropriate to "launch an inquiry"?

It's appropriate to "launch an inquiry" when there's a need for a formal investigation, such as into allegations of wrongdoing or to understand the cause of a problem.

What are some alternatives to "launch an inquiry"?

You can use alternatives like "initiate an investigation", "commence a probe", or "undertake a review".

What's the difference between "launch an inquiry" and "conduct an audit"?

"Launch an inquiry" refers to starting a formal investigation, while "conduct an audit" implies a systematic review, often in financial contexts.