inquiry/enquiry

Inquiring minds want to know: is there a difference between “inquire” and “enquire”? A difference in “inquiry” and “enquiry”? Which one flows off of your tongue… or… should I say… keyboard?

If you’re looking for a subtle distinction, there is one (ooh, a teaser…), but in almost all cases, the words are interchangeable. The biggest difference is that “inquire” and “inquiry” are more common in the U.S. and “enquire” and “enquiry” are more common in British English.

To some across the pond, “to enquire” means to ask more generally, and “to inquire” has more of a link to a formal investigation of some sort; however, if you’re Stateside, I wouldn’t really worry about this. Stick to “inquire” and “inquiry” for all uses, and you’ll be just fine.