Inquiry vs. Question: What's the Difference?

Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 6, 2023

An inquiry is a comprehensive investigation or formal examination, while a question is a direct request for information or clarification.

Key Differences

An inquiry is typically a more thorough search for information or understanding, often formal in nature. It encompasses not only the initial question but the overall process of seeking answers. This could involve multiple questions, methods, or research to gain comprehensive information or understanding. In institutional settings, an inquiry might refer to official investigations, where a team or individual is tasked to delve deep into a subject, issue, or incident.

On the other hand, a question is a straightforward request for information or a way to seek an answer to a specific point. Every individual asks questions daily, from simple requests like asking for the time to more complex questions regarding philosophical concepts. While an inquiry can contain many questions, the reverse isn't necessarily true; a question doesn't always lead to a full-blown inquiry.

In terms of use, the word inquiry often signifies depth, thoroughness, and sometimes formality. For instance, in academic or scientific contexts, an inquiry might be a prolonged study or research project. Conversely, the term question is versatile, used in casual conversations, formal discussions, quizzes, and so forth. Every inquiry will involve questions, but not every question will result in an inquiry.

From a grammatical perspective, both inquiry and question serve as nouns, but they differ in weight and implication. While you might pose a question to your friend about their weekend plans, a journalist might launch an inquiry into a politician's financial dealings. Both words revolve around the pursuit of knowledge, but their scale and scope set them apart.

Comparison Chart

Nature

Comprehensive examination

Direct request for information

Scope

Broader, encompassing

Specific and direct

Formality

Often more formal

Can be both formal and informal

Contains

May involve multiple questions

Is a singular request

Usage in Conversation

Used when discussing investigations or research

Commonly used in everyday dialogue

Inquiry and Question Definitions

Inquiry

The act of seeking information or knowledge.

The scientist's inquiry led to a groundbreaking discovery.

Question

A point or matter of discussion or debate.

The main question was about the company's future direction.

Inquiry

A probing question or request.

She sent an inquiry to the university regarding admission requirements.

Question

A problem or puzzle to solve.

The math question was challenging for most students.

Inquiry

An official process to discover the facts about something.

The police launched an inquiry after the mysterious incident.

Question

A topic to be considered or discussed.

The issue of climate change is a pressing question today.

Inquiry

A formal investigation.

The senator faced an inquiry into his financial dealings.

Question

A sentence, phrase, or gesture that seeks information through a reply.

Inquiry

The act of inquiring

Engaged in scientific inquiry.

Question

To ask a question or questions of (someone).

Inquiry

A question; a query

There were many inquiries about the new tax rates.

Question

To interrogate (a suspect, for example).

Inquiry

A close examination of a matter

A Congressional inquiry into the scandal.

Question

To pose a question or questions regarding (something); analyze or examine

Researchers questioning which of the methods will work.

Inquiry

The act of inquiring; a seeking of information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning.

Question

To express doubt about; dispute

Questioned his sincerity.

Questioned the expense report.

Inquiry

Search for truth, information, or knowledge; examination of facts or principles; research; investigation

Scientific inquiry

Question

To ask questions.

Inquiry

The act of inquiring; a seeking for information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning.

He could no path nor track of foot descry,Nor by inquiry learn, nor guess by aim.

The men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate.

Question

A sentence, phrase or word which asks for information, reply or response; an interrogative.

What is your question?

Inquiry

Search for truth, information, or knowledge; examination into facts or principles; research; investigation; as, physical inquiries.

All that is wanting to the perfection of this art will undoubtedly be found, if able men . . . will make inquiry into it.

Question

A subject or topic for consideration or investigation.

The question of seniority will be discussed at the meeting.

There was a question of which material to use.

Inquiry

A search for knowledge;

Their pottery deserves more research than it has received

Question

A doubt or challenge about the truth, accuracy, or validity of a matter.

His claim to the property has come under question.

The story is true beyond question.

He obeyed without question.

Inquiry

An instance of questioning;

There was a question about my training

We made inquiries of all those who were present

Question

A proposal to a meeting as a topic for deliberation.

I move that the question be put to a vote.

Inquiry

A systematic investigation of a matter of public interest

Question

Interrogation by torture.

Inquiry

A search for truth, information, or knowledge.

Every philosophical inquiry pushes the boundaries of understanding.

Question

(obsolete) Talk; conversation; speech.

Question

(transitive) To ask questions of; to interrogate; to ask for information.

Question

(transitive) To raise doubts about; have doubts about.

Question

(intransitive) To ask a question or questions; inquire or seek to know; examine.

Question

To argue; to converse; to dispute.

Question

The act of asking; interrogation; inquiry; as, to examine by question and answer.

Question

Discussion; debate; hence, objection; dispute; doubt; as, the story is true beyond question; he obeyed without question.

There arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.

It is to be to question, whether it be lawful for Christian princes to make an invasive war simply for the propagation of the faith.

Question

Examination with reference to a decisive result; investigation; specifically, a judicial or official investigation; also, examination under torture.

He that was in question for the robbery. Shak.The Scottish privy council had power to put state prisoners to the question.

Question

That which is asked; inquiry; interrogatory; query.

But this question askedPuts me in doubt. Lives there who loves his pain ?

Question

Hence, a subject of investigation, examination, or debate; theme of inquiry; matter to be inquired into; as, a delicate or doubtful question.

Question

Talk; conversation; speech; speech.

Question

To ask questions; to inquire.

He that questioneth much shall learn much.

Question

To argue; to converse; to dispute.

I pray you, think you question with the Jew.

Question

To inquire of by asking questions; to examine by interrogatories; as, to question a witness.

Question

To doubt of; to be uncertain of; to query.

And most we question what we most desire.

Question

To raise a question about; to call in question; to make objection to.

Question

To talk to; to converse with.

With many holiday and lady terms he questioned me.

Question

An instance of questioning;

There was a question about my training

We made inquiries of all those who were present

Question

The subject matter at issue;

The question of disease merits serious discussion

Under the head of minor Roman poets

Question

A sentence of inquiry that asks for a reply;

He asked a direct question

He had trouble phrasing his interrogations

Question

Uncertainty about the truth or factuality of existence of something;

The dubiousness of his claim

There is no question about the validity of the enterprise

Question

A formal proposal for action made to a deliberative assembly for discussion and vote;

He made a motion to adjourn

She called for the question

Question

An informal reference to a marriage proposal;

He was ready to pop the question

Question

Challenge the accuracy, probity, or propriety of;

We must question your judgment in this matter

Question

Pose a series of questions to;

The suspect was questioned by the police

We questioned the survivor about the details of the explosion

Question

Pose a question

Question

Conduct an interview in television, newspaper, and radio reporting

Question

Place in doubt or express doubtful speculation;

I wonder whether this was the right thing to do

She wondered whether it would snow tonight

Question

A sentence or phrase used to gain information.

She asked a question about the homework assignment.

Question

An expression of doubt or uncertainty.

His actions raised a question about his intentions.

FAQs

Can a question be a part of an inquiry?

Yes, an inquiry can consist of multiple questions.

Can you ask a question in an informal setting?

Absolutely, questions are common in both informal and formal settings.

Can businesses face inquiries?

Yes, businesses can face official inquiries regarding their practices or conduct.

Is an inquiry deeper than a question?

Generally, an inquiry implies a deeper or more thorough investigation than a single question.

Is an inquiry always formal?

Not always, but it often carries a more formal connotation than a question.

Does an inquiry always need evidence?

In formal settings, inquiries often require evidence to support conclusions.

What's the primary goal of a question?

To gain information or clarity on a specific topic or point.

Can a question be rhetorical?

Yes, rhetorical questions are asked without expecting an answer.

Is every question part of an inquiry?

No, while every inquiry involves questions, not every question leads to an inquiry.

Are there different methods of inquiry?

Yes, methods vary based on the field, like scientific, investigative, or philosophical inquiry.

Can an inquiry lead to a conclusion?

Yes, inquiries often aim to reach conclusions based on the gathered information.

Do legal proceedings involve inquiries?

Yes, legal proceedings often involve in-depth inquiries into matters of law or fact.

How is an inquiry initiated?

An inquiry can be initiated by curiosity, necessity, or formal requirements.

Is an inquiry longer than a question?

Typically, an inquiry encompasses a broader scope, while a question is more specific.

Can a question lead to more questions?

Often, one question can lead to further questions in search of comprehensive understanding.

What's the difference between a question and a query?

They are synonyms, but "query" often implies a formal or technical context.

Can a single event prompt multiple inquiries?

Absolutely, especially if the event has multiple facets or implications.

Can a question have multiple answers?

Yes, depending on the question, it might have multiple valid answers.

Can I question someone's decision?

Yes, it means you're seeking clarity or expressing doubt about their decision.

Are questions subjective or objective?

Questions can be both, depending on the context and intent.

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About Author

Written by

Janet White

Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.

Edited by

Harlon Moss

Harlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.