query for

USAGE SUMMARY

"query for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to mean to search or ask for information or data. For example, "We had to query for the customer's account information to process the refund".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Got a query for Matthew?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Got a culinary query for Matthew?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I have a query for you".

The New Yorker

See the same query for Asia.

The Guardian

Got a medical query for Dr Tom Smith?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Designers can query for the source of their violation.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Bayesian ontology querying for accurate and noise-tolerant semantic searches.

Nature

Using aggregation and dynamic queries for exploring large data sets.

Stanford University

AOL keeps a record of each user's search queries for one month, Mr. Weinstein said.

The New York Times - Tech

And if you have any queries for Mary Norris, tweet @NewYorker with the hashtag #commaqueen.

The New Yorker

Additionally, a contact person can be selected to manage any administration-related queries for the application.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "query for" when you need to specifically indicate that you are searching or requesting information within a system or database. It's effective in technical documentation and professional communications.

Common error

Avoid using "query for" in casual conversation where simpler alternatives like "search" or "ask about" would be more appropriate. The phrase can sound overly formal in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "query for" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe the action of making a request, often in a technical or formal context. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, supported by numerous examples demonstrating its application.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

31%

Science

26%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "query for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, primarily functioning as a verb phrase that denotes the act of requesting or searching for specific information, especially within technical systems or databases. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it leans towards a more professional register, making it most suitable for academic, technical, and formal communications. Its primary contexts include News & Media, Academia and Science, ensuring a diverse range of usage examples. Remember to consider the context and audience to decide if the formality is suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

search for

Focuses on the act of searching rather than a formal request.

inquire about

Implies a request for information, often more direct than a general search.

ask about

Simple request for general information or clarification.

request information on

Emphasizes the formal act of requesting specific details.

check for

Focuses on verifying the presence or status of something.

look up

Suggests a quick search for specific information, often in a reference material.

investigate

Conveys a more in-depth examination or exploration.

research

Involves detailed and systematic investigation to discover facts.

seek out

Implies a deliberate effort to find something specific.

probe into

Suggests a thorough and often intrusive investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "query for" in a sentence?

You can use "query for" to describe searching for specific information. For example, "The database administrator will "query for" user account details".

What's the difference between "query for" and "search for"?

"Query for" often implies a structured search within a database or system, whereas "search for" is more general and can apply to any kind of searching.

Is "query for" appropriate in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "query for" is more formal. In casual settings, consider using alternatives like "look for" or "ask about".

What can I say instead of "query for" in a formal context?

In formal contexts, you can use alternatives like "request information on" or "inquire about" to maintain a professional tone.