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.
I'd like to make an inquiry about the product.
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.
Expressing a simple, informal question or request for information in everyday conversation.
Referring to systematic study, research, or intellectual investigation in an academic context.
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.
Thank you for your inquiry.
For inquiries, please contact us here.
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 government launched an inquiry into the cause of the accident.
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.
The budget bill was under inquiry (deliberation) in the Diet.
Specifically refers to a police interrogation or criminal inquiry. Not used for general investigations.
The suspect is under police inquiry (interrogation).
The most common word for 'question' and works well for casual inquiries among friends or in informal settings.
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.
I'll make an inquiry about that (ask about it).
The standard term for academic research or scholarly inquiry.
He devoted his life to historical inquiry.
Implies a deep, often philosophical or scientific inquiry, seeking truth or understanding.
The inquiry into truth is the foundation of science.
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.