sense of enquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sense of enquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing curiosity, investigation, or the desire to learn more about a subject or topic. Example: "A strong sense of enquiry is essential for scientific research, as it drives the quest for knowledge and understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Poor Had No Lawyers, which outlines the social and historical reasons why millions of acres of common land lie in private and often unaccountable hands, is a bible for the land reform movement, and reflects the current sense of enquiry and engagement in Scotland.

The Guardian - Books

"A strong sense of enquiry and the ability to learn from a number of different disciplines simultaneously and to integrate these perspectives" are also key personal qualities that hiring managers look for in drug discovery, says Harack.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But for all its flaws, as with Lord of the Flies, there is a genuine sense of theatrical enquiry as it explores the relationship between theatre and digital technology, and triumphantly proves that they can be equal partners.

The Guardian

The workshops may not take place in a lecture theatre but by developing a sense of critical enquiry and expressing opinions, the children are told that they are learning similar skills to undergraduates.

The Guardian

Listen to the show here You can also listen to a recording of this year's annual Sense About Science lecture by Alan Sokal on the science of enquiry.

The Guardian

But last year it was a few months too early because all I could think of was R. A few weeks after we split, out of a vain sense of curiosity over how many enquiries I might receive, I signed up to a dating website.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In this way, Blumer distinguishes between definitive concepts that precisely define the object of enquiry, and sensitizing concept, which give 'a general sense of reference and guidance in approaching empirical instances' [ 34] (page 7).

BMC Medical Research Methodology

But it is a salutary reminder that the limitations of human senses can cause even competent scientists to overlook obvious lines of enquiry.

The Economist

The sense of principle driving Robin, as an enquiry that putatively begins as a search for the facts is rapidly contaminated by personal venom, begins to seem equally muddied by impulse.

The Guardian - Books

The result, Bock says, are graduates who have a lifelong passion for academic enquiry and a keen sense of civic duty.

The Guardian

The panels themselves follow strictly controlled lines of enquiry.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a desired attribute for roles in research or investigative fields, using the phrase "sense of enquiry" effectively conveys a proactive interest in learning and discovery.

Common error

Avoid using "sense of enquiry" in overly casual or informal situations where simpler words like "curiosity" or "interest" would suffice. This phrase is better suited for more formal or academic contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of enquiry" functions as a noun phrase, often used to describe a quality or attribute. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase to discuss curiosity and investigation. It typically acts as a subject or object within a sentence.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sense of enquiry" describes a quality of curiosity and a desire to investigate. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, noting its appropriateness in discussions about learning and discovery. While the phrase is somewhat rare, it is grammatically sound and appears across diverse contexts, from news and media to academic research. When writing, consider replacing it with alternatives like "spirit of investigation" or "curiosity for exploration" to alter the emphasis, and avoid overuse in casual settings. Its presence in authoritative sources like The Guardian underscores its acceptance in formal discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spirit of investigation

Replaces "sense" with "spirit" and "enquiry" with "investigation", emphasizing the underlying motivation for exploration.

investigative mindset

Shifts from a general feeling to a more concrete way of thinking and approaching problems.

keenness for research

Focuses on the enthusiasm for formal investigation and study.

curiosity for exploration

Highlights the role of curiosity as the driving force behind seeking new knowledge.

desire for knowledge

Emphasizes the yearning to acquire information and understanding.

probing nature

Focuses on the inherent tendency to ask questions and explore in detail.

inquisitiveness

A single word encapsulating the quality of being curious and eager to learn.

analytical bent

Highlights the inclination towards examining things methodically and in detail.

research orientation

Emphasizes a specific focus on systematic investigation and study.

exploratory drive

Highlights the internal motivation to investigate and discover new things.

FAQs

How can I use "sense of enquiry" in a sentence?

You might say, "A strong "sense of enquiry" is crucial for any journalist seeking the truth" or "The students demonstrated a commendable sense of enquiry during the science project."

What's a good alternative to "sense of enquiry"?

Consider using alternatives such as "curiosity for exploration", "spirit of investigation", or "investigative mindset" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "sense of enquiry" formal or informal?

The phrase "sense of enquiry" leans toward the formal side. It's appropriate for academic papers, professional reports, and serious discussions. In casual conversation, "curiosity" might be a better fit.

What does it mean to have a "sense of enquiry"?

Having a "sense of enquiry" means possessing a natural curiosity and a desire to investigate and understand things thoroughly. It implies an active and questioning approach to learning and problem-solving.