| − | An '''inquest''' is a judicial or official '''inquiry''' or examination especially before a jury, sometimes [[Denotation|denoting]] a [[preliminary hearing]] or investigation; often (but not always) to examine evidence to determine as far as possible the cause of death of an individual. | + | An '''inquest''' is a judicial or official '''inquiry''' or examination especially before a jury, often (but not always) to examine evidence to determine as far as possible the cause of death of an individual; a term sometimes improperly used as [[Denotation|denoting]] a [[preliminary hearing]] or investigation. Compare [[arraignment]]. |
| − | An inquiry is formal, while an '''enquiry''' is a casual, informal request for information, as for example to enquire about the wellbeing or situation of another, or about the location of a place or address or where to get information. | + | An '''inquiry''' is a formal investigation, while an '''enquiry''' is a casual, informal request for information, as for example to enquire about the wellbeing or situation of another, or about the location of a place or address or where to get information. |