Translation guide
The English word "inquiry" covers a range of situations from formal investigations to casual questions. In Japanese, the best choice depends on the context: whether it's a formal request for information, a personal question, or an official investigation.
Expressing a formal or official request for information, such as to a company, government office, or institution.
The most common and versatile term for an inquiry directed to an organization or business. It can be used for phone calls, emails, or in-person requests.
製品について問い合わせをしたいのですが。
I'd like to make an inquiry about the product.
お問い合わせはこちらまで。
For inquiries, please contact us here.
Used for formal inquiries, often in business or administrative contexts, such as checking account details or verifying information. More formal than 問い合わせ.
While primarily meaning 'question', it can be used for inquiries in less formal settings, such as asking a question at a seminar or to a speaker.
Referring to a formal investigation, often by authorities, a committee, or an organization, into a matter of public concern.
The standard term for an official investigation or inquiry, such as a government probe or a corporate internal investigation.
政府は事故の原因について調査を開始した。
The government launched an inquiry into the cause of the accident.
独立調査委員会が設置された。
An independent inquiry committee was established.
Refers to deliberation or inquiry in a formal meeting, such as a parliamentary committee. Often used in political or legal contexts.
Specifically refers to a police interrogation or criminal inquiry. Not used for general investigations.
Expressing a simple, informal question or request for information in everyday conversation.
The most common word for 'question' and works well for casual inquiries among friends or in informal settings.
ちょっと質問してもいい？
Can I ask you a quick inquiry (question)?
The verb 'to ask' is often used in casual speech to mean making an inquiry. It's very natural and common.
それ、ちょっと聞いてみるね。
I'll make an inquiry about that (ask about it).
Referring to systematic study, research, or intellectual investigation in an academic context.
The standard term for academic research or scholarly inquiry.
彼は歴史研究に生涯を捧げた。
He devoted his life to historical inquiry.
Implies a deep, often philosophical or scientific inquiry, seeking truth or understanding.
問い合わせ is used for formal inquiries to organizations, while 質問 is a general word for 'question' and can be used in both formal and casual settings. When contacting a company, use 問い合わせ; when asking a friend, use 質問 or simply 聞く.
お問い合わせありがとうございます。
Thank you for your inquiry.
質問があるんだけど。
I have an inquiry (question).
The English word 'inquiry' can be translated in many ways. Using a direct translation like インクワイアリー is not natural. Always choose the Japanese word that fits the context.
口座残高の照会方法を教えてください。
Please tell me how to inquire about my account balance.
ご質問があれば、どうぞ。
If you have any inquiries (questions), please go ahead.
The budget bill was under inquiry (deliberation) in the Diet.
容疑者は警察の取り調べを受けている。
The suspect is under police inquiry (interrogation).
真理の探究は科学の基本だ。
The inquiry into truth is the foundation of science.