sense of inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

"sense of inquiry" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when referring to a person's curiosity or eagerness to investigate or learn something. For example, you could write: "Pablo's sense of inquiry opened up a whole new world of knowledge to him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Especially when children are young, we need to try to foster in them an interest and sense of inquiry and hopefulness about the natural world".

The Guardian

Though Woolfson maintains a spirited sense of inquiry, the overwhelming mood here is of oncoming loss, and bafflement as to how we've managed to make such a poor fist of stewarding our inherited Eden.

The Guardian - Books

The new movie "Annihilation" feels like a vanity project in a very specific way: until a few strikingly inspired moments near the end, it plays like a film made for no personal need, no sense of inquiry or effort to understand situations, characters, or the universe — rather, it appears made to impress.

The New Yorker

They were also expected to create a learning environment where students will nurture their sense of inquiry by negotiating different ideas.

Asia-Pacific Science Education

The 2007 Philadelphia production also received favorable reviews, and critic Wendy Rosenfield of The Philadelphia Inquirer wrote "..somehow the production emerges triumphant, retaining its innocent sense of inquiry and buoyant good humor while making some pretty serious philosophical points".

Wikipedia

They frame this in the language of populism (remember that line about "meaningful, valuable professions"?), even as they overlook what remains the key function of a college education: to instill a sense of inquiry.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

And a sense of cultural inquiry floats, lightly, over all.

The New York Times

Other seekers of enlightenment might prefer the 2004 New Age curiosity "What the Bleep Do We Know!?," whose playful sense of scientific inquiry is refreshing by comparison.

The New York Times

Mr. Godard, recoiling from the Marxist dialectics of his earlier work, was well into his lyrical phase, and his films from the mid-1980's have a contemplative, pastoral quality that is, if not overtly religious, then certainly infused with a sense of spiritual inquiry.

The New York Times

MIERS: I'm not sure, but the sense of the inquiry was this is happening, it's unfair.

Huffington Post

And the drawings and lithographs give a sense of his constant inquiry, through line, into spatial relationships.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's character, use "sense of inquiry" to convey their inherent curiosity and eagerness to explore new ideas and knowledge.

Common error

Avoid using "sense of inquiry" to excuse a lack of focus. While a curious mind is valuable, it shouldn't be a justification for constantly changing direction without achieving concrete results. Ensure curiosity leads to exploration, understanding, and ultimately, achievement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of inquiry" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It describes a quality or characteristic related to curiosity and investigation. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Academic

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sense of inquiry" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe someone's inherent curiosity and eagerness to explore new ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. While not exceedingly common, it appears across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and scientific publications. To improve your writing, use it to emphasize someone's character or interest in learning and discovering. Be mindful not to confuse a genuine thirst for understanding with simply lacking focus. Consider using alternatives like "intellectual curiosity" or "inquiring mind" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquiring mind

This alternative highlights the characteristic of having a mind that is naturally curious and questioning.

intellectual curiosity

Focuses specifically on curiosity related to intellectual pursuits, highlighting the desire to learn and understand complex concepts.

thirst for understanding

It focuses on the motivation to comprehend and grasp complex ideas.

spirit of investigation

This alternative emphasizes the active and motivated aspect of investigating, implying a proactive approach to seeking knowledge, rather than the passive feeling of "sense".

exploratory nature

This highlights the innate tendency to explore and investigate, suggesting a natural curiosity and desire to discover new things.

desire for knowledge

Emphasizes the aspiration to learn and acquire information, directly addressing the motivation behind inquiry.

probing intellect

This refers to an intellectual capacity that is keen and persistent in its pursuit of knowledge and understanding.

spirit of adventure

This phrase connects the act of inquiring with the enthusiasm and excitement associated with exploring unknown or challenging situations.

quest for answers

Highlights the determined search for solutions and explanations, emphasizing the active pursuit of knowledge.

investigative bent

This refers to a natural inclination or tendency towards investigating and examining things closely.

FAQs

How can I demonstrate a "sense of inquiry" in the workplace?

Demonstrate a "sense of inquiry" by asking thoughtful questions, actively seeking new information, and proposing innovative solutions to problems. Be open to learning and exploring different perspectives.

What is the difference between "intellectual curiosity" and "sense of inquiry"?

"Sense of inquiry" is a broader term that includes a general eagerness to learn and explore, while "intellectual curiosity" specifically refers to a desire to understand complex concepts and ideas.

How do you cultivate a "sense of inquiry" in children?

Encourage children's natural curiosity by answering their questions thoughtfully, providing opportunities for exploration and experimentation, and creating a learning environment that values curiosity and discovery.

What are some synonyms for "sense of inquiry"?

Synonyms include "intellectual curiosity", "inquiring mind", and "spirit of investigation". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuances you wish to convey.