What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
curious
Example
The child was curious about the strange object on the ground. [curious: adjective]
Example
I'm curious to know what happened next in the story. [curious: adjective]
inquisitive
Example
The journalist had an inquisitive nature and always asked probing questions. [inquisitive: adjective]
Example
She was very inquisitive about how the machine worked and took it apart to examine its parts. [inquisitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Curious is more commonly used in everyday language, while inquisitive is more formal and less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between curious and inquisitive?
Inquisitive is more formal than curious and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Curious is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal situations.
