open an inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "open an inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when initiating an investigation or asking for information about a particular matter. Example: "The committee decided to open an inquiry into the allegations of misconduct."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

I cannot open an inquiry into myself".

The Guardian - Sport

Now, outside watchdog groups can petition Mr. Wise's office to open an inquiry.

The New York Times

Within half an hour, the nation's stock market regulator said it would open an inquiry.

The New York Times

It has urged the Supreme Court open an inquiry, a decision the justices are weighing.

The New York Times

After the public outcry, Mr. Yanukovich directed Ukraine's prosecutor general, Viktor Pshonka, to open an inquiry.

The New York Times

He added that he had asked UK Anti‑Doping to open an inquiry into the package.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

The TSA opened an inquiry.

The Economist

The police have opened an inquiry.

The New York Times

The city's Department of Investigation opened an inquiry.

The New York Times

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has opened an inquiry.

The New York Times

The S.E.C. opened an inquiry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "open an inquiry" when referring to a formal process of gathering information to resolve a specific issue or concern. Be sure to specify the subject of the inquiry to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "open an inquiry" without specifying the subject. It's better to use "open an inquiry into [subject]" to clarify what is being investigated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "open an inquiry" functions as a verb phrase that initiates a process. It's typically used in legal, political, or organizational contexts to denote the commencement of a formal investigation, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "open an inquiry" is a commonly used phrase that signifies the initiation of a formal investigation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and prevalent usage across diverse domains like news, formal communications, and business contexts. The phrase often appears when there is a need to examine a situation and establish facts, investigate wrongdoing, or examine specific situations and practices. While versatile, it is crucial to specify the subject of the inquiry to prevent ambiguity. Related phrases include "launch an investigation" and "initiate a probe", among others. By understanding its nuances and adhering to best practices, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey the commencement of formal investigations in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

launch an investigation

Emphasizes a more formal and structured investigation.

initiate a probe

Suggests a careful and thorough examination.

start an investigation

A more general way to describe beginning an investigative process.

commence an inquiry

A formal way of saying to begin an inquiry.

undertake an investigation

Implies a serious and committed approach to investigating.

conduct an investigation

Focuses on the active process of carrying out an investigation.

set up a commission of inquiry

Refers to establishing a formal body to conduct the inquiry.

establish an investigation

Similar to 'start an investigation', but with a sense of formality.

order an investigation

Highlights the act of directing that an investigation should start.

look into

An informal way of saying to investigate something.

FAQs

What does "open an inquiry" mean?

To "open an inquiry" means to begin a formal investigation or examination of a particular matter, often to establish facts and determine if further action is needed.

What can I say instead of "open an inquiry"?

You can use alternatives like "launch an investigation", "initiate a probe", or "start an investigation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "open an inquiry"?

It's appropriate to use "open an inquiry" when referring to a formal process, such as a government body or organization starting an official investigation.

What's the difference between "open an inquiry" and "conduct an investigation"?

"Open an inquiry" refers to the act of starting an investigation, while "conduct an investigation" refers to the ongoing process of carrying out the investigation.