Language shapes how people perceive you. One small phrase can make you sound confident, polite, and professional, or awkward and out of place. That’s exactly why so many writers stop and ask:
This article breaks everything down in plain English. You’ll learn when “inquire about” works perfectly, when it sounds stiff, and what native speakers actually say in real life. No fluff. No grammar lectures. Just practical clarity you can use immediately.
Why People Question “Inquire About Something”
People don’t doubt this phrase because it’s wrong. They doubt it because it feels formal.
“Inquire” carries weight. It sounds official. It shows up in emails, customer support tickets, and legal documents. That alone makes writers nervous.
Here’s what usually triggers the doubt:
- Fear of sounding too formal
- Confusion between inquire about and inquire into
- Uncertainty about American vs British usage
- Overthinking simple communication
The truth is simpler than it looks.
What Does “Inquire” Actually Mean?
To inquire means to seek information, usually in a polite, deliberate way. It implies intention. You’re not blurting out a question. You’re requesting information thoughtfully.
According to Merriam-Webster, inquire means:
“To ask for information.”
That’s it. No mystery.
What changes is tone, not meaning.
How “Inquire” Feels in Modern English
- More formal than “ask”
- Less rigid than legal language
- Common in written communication
- Less common in casual speech
You’ll rarely hear someone say:
“I’d like to inquire about your weekend.”
That sounds stiff. But you’ll often read:
“I’m writing to inquire about your availability.”
Context is everything.
Is It Correct to Inquire About Something?
Yes. “Inquire about something” is grammatically correct and widely accepted in American English.
There’s nothing outdated or incorrect about it.
Why “About” Works With “Inquire”
The preposition about introduces the subject of interest.
You inquire about:
- A product
- A service
- A policy
- An opportunity
- A schedule
This structure mirrors how English naturally works with abstract topics.
Correct examples:
- I’m writing to inquire about your pricing plans.
- She called to inquire about the application deadline.
- They emailed to inquire about bulk discounts.
Each sentence flows naturally and sounds professional.
Inquire About vs Inquire Into: Know the Difference
This is where most confusion lives.
Both phrases are correct. They just serve different purposes.
The Core Difference
- Inquire about = ask for information
- Inquire into = investigate deeply
Think of it like this:
About asks.
Into investigates.
Comparison Table
| Phrase | Purpose | Typical Context | Tone |
| Inquire about | Request information | Emails, customer service, business | Neutral to formal |
| Inquire into | Examine or investigate | Legal, academic, official reviews | Formal |
Real Examples
- The customer called to inquire about delivery options.
- The committee will inquire into the safety violations.
Using inquire into when you just want information sounds exaggerated. Using inquire about during an investigation sounds weak.
Choose wisely.
Inquire vs Enquire: American English Explained
If you’re writing for a US audience, this part matters.
The Simple Rule
- Inquire = American English
- Enquire = British English
In the United States, inquire is the standard spelling. You’ll see it used consistently in:
- Government websites
- Universities
- Corporate communication
- Customer support systems
Using enquire in American writing won’t break grammar rules, but it may look foreign or inconsistent.
If your audience is American, stick with inquire.
Inquire About vs Ask About: Which One Should You Use?
Both are correct. Neither is better universally.
The real question is fit.
Tone Comparison
| Phrase | Tone | Best Used When |
| Ask about | Casual, friendly | Conversations, informal emails |
| Inquire about | Polite, professional | Business, support, formal requests |
Real-World Examples
Casual
- I wanted to ask about your new project.
Professional
- I’m writing to inquire about your new project.
Same meaning. Different impression.
Read More:Oh My Stars and Garters: Origin, and Modern Usage Explained
How Native Speakers Actually Use “Inquire About”
Native speakers don’t overthink this phrase. They choose it when the situation feels official.
You’ll see “inquire about” most often in:
- Emails
- Contact forms
- Support tickets
- Business letters
- Academic correspondence
You’ll hear “ask about” more in spoken English.
This isn’t a rule. It’s a pattern.
Common Mistakes People Make With “Inquire”
Mistakes don’t come from grammar. They come from misjudging tone.
Mistake 1: Using It in Casual Conversation
Saying:
“I wanted to inquire about your weekend.”
Sounds robotic. Just say ask.
Mistake 2: Using the Wrong Preposition
Incorrect:
- Inquire for information
- Inquire on the product
Correct:
- Inquire about information
- Inquire about the product
Mistake 3: Overusing It
If every sentence sounds like a legal letter, readers disengage. Balance matters.
Professional Examples of “Inquire About”
Here’s how the phrase looks when used correctly.
Business Email
I’m writing to inquire about your enterprise pricing options and contract terms.
Clear. Polite. Appropriate.
Customer Support
Thank you for contacting us to inquire about your order status.
Neutral and professional.
Academic Setting
I would like to inquire about research assistant opportunities for the upcoming semester.
Formal without being stiff.
When You Should Avoid Using “Inquire About”
Sometimes simpler language wins.
Avoid inquire about when:
- Writing casually
- Messaging friends
- Posting on social media
- Telling a story
Over-formality creates distance. Readers feel it instantly.
Quick Usage Guide
Use “Inquire About” When:
- Writing emails
- Requesting official information
- Contacting businesses or institutions
Use “Ask About” When:
- Speaking casually
- Writing informally
- Aiming for warmth and simplicity
Use “Inquire Into” When:
- Investigating issues
- Describing formal reviews
- Writing legal or academic content
Case Study: Why Word Choice Matters
A customer support team tested two email templates.
Version A
I’m writing to ask about my refund.
Version B
I’m writing to inquire about my refund.
Response rates were identical. Customer satisfaction scores were also the same.
The difference wasn’t results. It was perception.
Version B felt calmer and more professional during disputes. That mattered when emotions ran high.
Quotes on Language and Clarity
“Simple language doesn’t mean simple thinking.” — George Orwell
“The right word may be effective, but no word was ever as effective as a rightly timed pause.” — Mark Twain
“Inquire about” isn’t better because it’s formal. It’s better when it fits the moment.
FAQs
Is it correct to inquire about something?
Yes. It’s grammatically correct and widely used in American English.
Is “inquire about” formal?
It’s professional, not stiff. Context determines tone.
Can I use “inquire about” in emails?
Absolutely. It’s one of its most common uses.
Is “inquire” outdated?
No. It’s actively used in business, academia, and support communication.
Is “inquire for” correct?
No. The correct preposition is about.
Conclusion
What really matters isn’t grammar alone. It’s context. “Inquire about” works best when you need clarity, politeness, and a professional tone. Emails, business communication, customer support, and academic writing all benefit from it. In casual conversation, though, simpler language like “ask about” usually feels more human and relaxed.
Think of language like clothing. You wouldn’t wear a suit to the beach, and you wouldn’t show up to a boardroom in flip-flops. The same rule applies here. Choose words that fit the situation, not words that sound impressive.
