If you are looking for an explanation of the difference between 'inquiry' vs. 'enquiry,' you came to the right place.
Here is the short answer in case you are in a hurry:
Keep reading to learn more about these terms and when to use each!
'Inquiry' and 'enquiry' mean the same thing. They are just two ways of spelling the same term.
The first spelling is preferred in the United States, while the latter is the correct British English spelling.
Either spelling is acceptable as long as you use the same spelling throughout your text.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 'inquiry' is a noun that means:
Synonyms are words like a term you can use instead of another. Here is a list of synonyms for 'inquiry':
The same source defines 'enquiry' as an alternative spelling to 'inquiry.'
The synonyms of 'enquiry' are the same as 'inquiry.' So, here is a list of similar words that are spelled differently in British English speaking countries:
Pronunciation is always critical. However, when you are using terms like these, it helps to know whether their pronunciations are different or the same.
So, here is a pronunciation guide you can reference.
in-kwī(-uh)-rē
in-kwī(-uh)-rē
So, you learned that the only difference between 'inquiry' vs. 'enquiry' is their spelling. So, how do you know when to use each?
Here are some tips to help you determine when to use 'inquiry' vs. 'enquiry':
For example, you could say:
Have you had an opportunity to look over my inquiry?
As an example, you could say:
Please respond to my enquiry about the pricing for each colour variation.
So, here is an example:
Dear Henry,
Did you receive my inquiry last week?
Sincerely,
Yvette
Response:
Dear Yvette,
I apologize, I did receive your inquiry, but I was out of the office last week, and I have been playing catch up. I will look into your inquiry now, and get back to you as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Henry
Or:
Dear Henry,
I received your enquiry last week, but I have a few questions. Do you have a few minutes to jump on a call with me so you can clarify?
Sincerely,
Yvette
Response:
Dear Yvette,
I do not have time to go over the enquiry today, but I would be happy to set up a call to go over it with you next week. What day works for you?
Sincerely,
Henry
Now, read these sample sentences using 'inquiry' and 'enquiry' to ensure that you understand and remember how to use each.
Yay! You finished this entire lesson. Here is a recap of what you learned about the difference between 'inquiry' vs. 'enquiry':
Honestly, you can use either of these spellings. They are both acceptable.
However, if you want to learn how to correctly use other English terms and improve your writing and grammar skills, check out some other writer guides here.
Each lesson contains definitions, sentence samples, and writing tips to help you learn all of the ways to use the terms covered in the post. Furthermore, you can learn about industry trends.
So, come back frequently to learn about grammar rules and freelance writing best practices.
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