1
Core action
Ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
Example
Reviewers queried the unexplained change in sample size.
query
/ˈkwɪəri/ · KWEER-eeverb
Ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
Use query to express this relationship precisely: ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
What query Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
She queried whether the estimate included temporary workers.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
Customers may query any unfamiliar charge.
Use query Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Reviewers queried the unexplained change in sample size.
She queried whether the estimate included temporary workers.
Customers may query any unfamiliar charge.
Precision Matters
Query overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
query
vs.Means ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
advocate
Means publicly support, recommend, or argue in favour of a cause, policy, or course of action.
query
vs.Means ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
allege
Means claim or declare that something is true, typically without yet providing proof.
query
vs.Means ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
ascertain
Means find out or establish a fact with certainty through investigation, observation, or evidence.
query
vs.Means ask a question about something, especially to obtain information or challenge its accuracy.
incredulous
Means unwilling or unable to believe something; showing strong disbelief.
Test query in Context
The auditor asks about or challenges the questionable item.
1
Because the totals did not match, the auditor decided to ___ the unexplained expense.