What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inquiry
Example
I sent an inquiry to the company about their products. [inquiry: noun]
Example
The committee launched an inquiry into the allegations of fraud. [inquiry: noun]
investigation
Example
The police conducted an investigation into the robbery. [investigation: noun]
Example
The journalist's investigation uncovered corruption in the government. [investigation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inquiry is more commonly used in everyday language than investigation. Inquiry is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while investigation is often associated with legal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inquiry and investigation?
Investigation is generally considered more formal than inquiry. It is often used in legal or official contexts and requires a more thorough and systematic approach. Inquiry, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts and is often associated with a more casual tone.
