enquire

UK: /ɪnˈkwaɪə/ | US: /ɪnˈkwaɪr/

Definition

  1. vi. to ask for information

  2. vt. to investigate or look into something

Structure
en <in, into>quire <ask, seek>en <in, into>quire <ask, seek>
Etymology

enquire = en<in, into> + quire<ask, seek>

  • en<in, into>: A prefix derived from Latin in-, meaning "in" or "into."
  • quire<ask, seek>: From Latin quaerere, meaning "to ask" or "to seek."

Etymology Origin:
The word enquire traces back to Latin inquirere (from in- + quaerere), which evolved into Old French enquerre before entering Middle English as enquiren. The root quaerere also gives rise to related words like query and question. The prefix en- emphasizes the act of seeking information, reflecting the word’s focus on investigation or asking.

Examples

  1. She decided to enquire about the job opening.

  2. The committee will enquire into the allegations.

  3. May I enquire why you’re leaving early?

  4. He enquired after her health.

  5. The police enquired further into the case.