serious inquiry

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious inquiry" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a thoughtful and earnest investigation or questioning about a particular subject or issue. Example: "The committee conducted a serious inquiry into the allegations of misconduct within the organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I do, however, know what serious inquiry looks like.

The New York Times

The transgressions merit serious inquiry and long overdue accountability.

The Washington Post

It was both a private joke and a serious inquiry.

The New Yorker

I had already imagined his academic career as one of serious inquiry and achievement.

The New York Times

What Art Is Like is a comic, serious inquiry into the nature of art.

Harvard University

Republican senators not only reject such a serious inquiry but also actively impede it.

The Washington Post

During the Oct. 28 Republican debate, CNBC's John Harwood substituted snark for serious inquiry.

The Washington Post

"I'm told we've had only one serious inquiry so far -- from a student, I think".

The New York Times - Magazine

He was going to teach instead, as well as launch "a serious inquiry into painting".

The Guardian - Arts

A mix of engaging wit and serious inquiry, his book is several things.

The New York Times - Books

Last year our reviewer, Richard Eder, called this "a mix of engaging wit and serious inquiry".

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serious inquiry" to convey a sense of importance and thoroughness in an investigation or examination. It's particularly effective when emphasizing the gravity of the subject matter.

Common error

While "serious inquiry" is a valid phrase, avoid using it in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler terms like "looking into it" or "checking it out" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious inquiry" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "serious" modifies the noun "inquiry". According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It describes a thorough and earnest investigation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

9%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious inquiry" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that denotes a thorough and important investigation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's used across various contexts, including news media and academia. While semantically similar alternatives such as "thorough investigation" and "in-depth examination" exist, "serious inquiry" conveys a specific emphasis on the gravity and diligence of the examination. It's best employed in neutral to formal settings to maintain an appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough investigation

Focuses on the comprehensive nature of the investigation.

in-depth examination

Emphasizes the depth and detail of the analysis.

rigorous probe

Highlights the strictness and thoroughness of the investigation.

extensive study

Stresses the breadth and scope of the research.

comprehensive review

Indicates a complete and thorough assessment.

detailed analysis

Focuses on the level of detail in the examination.

close scrutiny

Highlights careful and detailed observation.

careful assessment

Emphasizes the thoughtfulness and precision of the evaluation.

searching investigation

Suggests a diligent and thorough inquiry aimed at uncovering the truth.

earnest investigation

Emphasizes the sincerity and seriousness of the investigative efforts.

FAQs

How to use "serious inquiry" in a sentence?

You can use "serious inquiry" to describe a thorough investigation. For example, "The allegations warranted a "serious inquiry" by the authorities."

What can I say instead of "serious inquiry"?

You can use alternatives like "thorough investigation", "in-depth examination", or "rigorous probe" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "serious inquiry" or "casual inquiry"?

Both phrases are correct, but they convey different meanings. "Serious inquiry" implies a formal and thorough investigation, while "casual inquiry" suggests a more informal and less intensive questioning.

What's the difference between "serious inquiry" and "formal investigation"?

"Serious inquiry" is a broader term that can encompass both formal and informal investigations. A "formal investigation" typically involves specific procedures and protocols, while a "serious inquiry" may be less structured.