Inquiry and enquiry are interchangeable in the US, but inquiry dominates to the extent that most Americans consider enquiry a spelling mistake. In the UK, inquiry and enquiry are interchangeable, but inquiry is usually used for a formal investigation.
Inquiry is the process of asking about or investigating something in order to find out more about it. The investigation has suddenly switched to a new line of inquiry.
"Enquiry" and "inquiry" are often used interchangeably, but their usage can vary by region. In British English, "enquiry" typically refers to a general question or request for information, while "inquiry" is used for formal investigations or systematic examinations.
These nouns denote a quest for knowledge, data, or truth: filed an inquiry about the lost shipment; an inquisition into their political activities; a criminal investigation; a probe into alleged police corruption.
Inquiry often involves critical thinking, problem-solving, and an openness to new ideas and perspectives. It can be used in various contexts, such as scientific investigations, academic research, investigative journalism, or everyday curiosity.
In British English, inquiry means a formal investigation, of the type carried out by government, police, scientists or an official organization. Enquiry has the same meaning, but it is reserved for less formal investigations.
These nouns denote a quest for knowledge, data, or truth: filed an inquiry about the lost shipment; an inquisition into their political activities; a criminal investigation; a probe into alleged police corruption.