Differentiating Inquiry and Enquiry: A Guide to Usage and Context

Understanding the Difference: Inquiry vs Enquiry

The words “inquiry” and “enquiry” can be confusing because they look and sound very similar. Let’s look at the history, use, and a simple trick to remember how they are different.

History

Both “inquiry” and “enquiry” come from the same Latin word. “Enquiry” is used more in British English, while “inquiry” is often found in American English.

How to Use Them

Inquiry

In American English, “inquiry” is used for any question or request for information, big or small. In British English, it often means a serious or official search for the truth or facts.

• She made an inquiry about the library hours.
• The school held an inquiry into the missing books.
• There was an inquiry about joining the club.
• The police started an inquiry to find the lost child.
• His inquiry led him to discover new facts.

Enquiry

In British English, “enquiry” is often used for simple questions or requests for information.

• I have an enquiry about my train ticket.
• Can you handle this enquiry for me?
• She made an enquiry about the gym membership.
• There was an enquiry about the event timing.
• He received an enquiry from a customer.

Trick to Remember the Difference

Think of “I” in “inquiry” for Important or Official investigations, and “E” in “enquiry” for Everyday questions.

Summary

Both words mean asking questions or asking for information. Use “inquiry” for official or serious questions, and “enquiry” for everyday, simple questions, especially in British English. If you use American English, “inquiry” works for all kinds of questions.