Translation guide
The English verb "inquire" covers a range of situations from formal written requests to casual spoken questions. In Japanese, the best choice depends on the level of formality, the medium (spoken vs. written), and the relationship between the speakers. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese expressions by these contexts.
To ask for information in a formal, polite, or official context, often in writing or over the phone.
The most standard and versatile verb for formal inquiries, especially to businesses, government offices, or organizations. Commonly used in both spoken and written Japanese.
I will inquire about the product.
Please inquire by email for details.
A formal verb meaning 'to ask' or 'to inquire', often used when seeking information from someone directly. Slightly more literary or formal than 聞く.
A humble verb (謙譲語) used when the subject is the speaker and the action is directed toward a superior or customer. Conveys respect and is common in business settings.
I would like to inquire about your opinion.
May I inquire about something briefly?
The noun form of 問い合わせる, often used in set phrases like 'お問い合わせください' (please inquire). Extremely common in customer service contexts.
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To ask a question or seek information in a casual, everyday context among friends, family, or peers.
The most common and versatile verb for 'ask' in casual Japanese. Can be used for both 'ask a question' and 'listen'. In many cases, this is the most natural equivalent of 'inquire' in informal settings.
I'd like to inquire about something.
I'll inquire about his plans.
Literally 'to ask a question'. More direct than 聞く and often used when the inquiry is a specific question rather than a general request for information.
I inquired of the teacher after class.
To ask about someone's health, circumstances, or condition in a polite or caring manner.
A standard polite phrase to inquire about someone's health or general well-being. Equivalent to 'How are you?' but used more literally as an inquiry.
How is your mother? (I'm inquiring about her health.)
A polite way to inquire about someone's condition, opinion, or preference. More formal than どうですか.
How are you feeling? (I'm inquiring about your condition.)
To conduct an official inquiry, investigation, or inquest, often by police, committees, or other bodies.
Used for formal interrogations or investigations by police or authorities. Implies a thorough, often adversarial inquiry.
The police inquired into the suspect.
A very formal term for a judicial or official inquiry, hearing, or inquest. Rare in everyday language.
The committee inquired into the incident.
These three verbs all mean 'to ask/inquire', but differ in formality and direction of respect. 聞く is neutral/casual and the most common. 尋ねる is more formal and often used in writing or polite speech. 伺う is humble language (謙譲語) used when the speaker's action is directed toward a superior; it elevates the listener. Use 伺う when inquiring of a customer, boss, or someone you respect.
In casual English, 'inquire' can sound stiff. Similarly, using 問い合わせる or 尋ねる with friends may sound overly formal or unnatural. Stick to 聞く or 質問する for everyday conversations.