make inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when requesting information or seeking clarification about a particular subject or issue. Example: "I would like to make inquiry about the status of my application."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The other thing we know for certain is that the US government considers it appropriate to make inquiry into where and how politically sensitive material is being handled by US service providers.

The Guardian

Lincoln arranged for an intermediary to make inquiry into Grant's political intentions, and being assured that he had none, submitted to the Senate Grant's promotion to commander of the Union Army.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Make inquiries.

The New York Times - Travel

"We don't do investigations or make inquiries".

The Guardian

When they do make inquiries, the results are often surprising.

The New Yorker

We cannot make inquiries based on a newspaper article".

The New York Times

Now in London, Becker began to make inquiries.

The Guardian

Even if your insurer covers bariatric surgery, make inquiries about the fees involved.

The New York Times - Health

Through contacts, Diaghilev got the French Ambassador in Moscow to make inquiries.

The New Yorker

On Thursday, parliament began to make inquiries into whether the minister of interior could be prosecuted.

The Economist

She said landlords would take her deposit, make inquiries about her and finally return the money.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make inquiry" when you want to sound formal and professional, especially in written communication. It's suitable for official letters or reports.

Common error

Avoid using "make inquiry" in casual conversations or informal emails. Opt for simpler alternatives like "ask about" or "check on" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make inquiry" functions as a verb phrase where "make" acts as a light verb and "inquiry" is a noun. It introduces the action of seeking information or clarification. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make inquiry" is a formal phrase used to describe the act of asking questions or seeking information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for written English, especially in professional contexts. While grammatically sound and widely understood, it is more formal than simpler alternatives like "ask about" or "investigate". When choosing between "make inquiry" and its alternatives, consider the audience and the desired tone of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek information

Highlights the intent to find and obtain data or knowledge.

ask about

A more direct and simple way to request information.

investigate

Implies a more thorough and systematic examination than "make inquiry".

gather details

Focuses on collecting specific pieces of information.

look into

A more informal way of saying "investigate".

check on

Focuses on verifying the status or condition of something.

probe into

Suggests a deeper and more persistent investigation, often into sensitive matters.

undertake an investigation

A more formal and extensive approach to seeking information or solving a problem.

conduct research

Emphasizes a systematic approach to gathering information.

explore

Implies a broad and open-ended search for information.

FAQs

What does "make inquiry" mean?

The phrase "make inquiry" means to ask a question or request information about something. It's a formal way of saying you are seeking to learn more about a particular matter.

Is it better to say "make inquiry" or "make enquiries"?

"Make inquiry" and "make enquiries" are both grammatically correct, with "make inquiry" being more common in American English and "make enquiries" more common in British English. They carry the same meaning.

When should I use "make inquiry" instead of "ask"?

Use "make inquiry" in formal settings when you want to sound professional and serious. In casual situations, "ask" is perfectly adequate and more natural.

What are some alternatives to "make inquiry"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "ask about", "investigate", "look into", or "seek information".