Meaning of Word
Query refers to a question or an inquiry made to obtain information or clarification. It can also refer to the act of seeking answers or information about something.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Noun: A question, especially one addressed to an official or an expert.
- Verb: To ask a question or inquire about something.
- Noun: An inquiry made to gather information, often for clarification.
- Verb: To express doubt or seek clarification regarding a statement, idea, or situation.
History and Origin
The word “query” comes from the Latin quaerere, meaning “to seek” or “to ask.” It passed through Middle English and entered the language in the 14th century. Its usage evolved to include not only asking questions but also the act of investigating or seeking information, especially in formal or technical contexts, such as in databases or research.
Detailed Explanation
“Query” is primarily used to describe a request for information or an investigation aimed at obtaining clarity. In everyday language, it refers to any question asked to seek understanding or knowledge. In more technical contexts, a query can refer to a request made to a database to retrieve specific data. It is often associated with formal questioning or seeking answers, whether in academic, professional, or technical settings. The term also implies a sense of investigation or inquiry, suggesting that the answer may not be immediately obvious and further exploration is needed.
Example Sentences
- The researcher sent a query to the database to find more information on the topic.
- I have a query about the bill; could you explain this charge?
- The customer submitted a query about the product’s return policy.
- She raised a query regarding the new company’s policy on vacation days.
- His query about the project deadline was answered quickly by the manager.
- We need to handle each query from the clients with care and clarity.
- The professor answered the student’s query during the lecture.
- The system automatically returns results for any query entered by the user.
- The doctor addressed the patient’s query about the side effects of the medication.
Synonyms with Short Explanation
- Question: A request for information, typically direct and straightforward.
- Inquiry: A more formal or detailed request for information, often involving investigation.
- Interrogation: A more intense or systematic form of questioning, often used in formal or legal settings.
- Probe: A deeper or more thorough investigation or questioning to uncover details.
- Request: A general term for asking for something, which can include seeking information.
Related Words with Short Explanation
- Response: An answer or reply to a query or question.
- Clarification: The act of making something clearer, often done in response to a query.
- Investigation: A detailed inquiry or examination to gather information.
- Examination: A careful inspection or study, often conducted in response to a query.
- Search: A process of looking for information, often prompted by a query.
More Matches with Short Explanation
- Database Query: A request made to a database to retrieve specific information.
- Query String: In computing, a part of a URL used to pass data to a web server.
- Search Query: A word or phrase entered into a search engine to find information.
- Query Letter: A formal letter from a writer or author asking for information or permission, often to literary agents or publishers.
- Query Resolution: The process of finding an answer or solution to a question or inquiry.
Antonyms
- Answer: A response to a question or query.
- Response: A reply or reaction to an inquiry, opposite of making a query.
- Confirmation: The act of verifying or affirming something, as opposed to seeking information.
- Solution: The resolution or explanation for a problem, contrasting with the act of querying it.
- Statement: A declaration or assertion, rather than an inquiry.