What is the difference among "ask", "inquire" and "require"? When do we use them? Can we use them interchangeably?

The questions above highlight a few interesting nuances in English. A nuance is a small way meanings change between words, even when they seem similar. Let's take a look at these three words to see how they are similar and how they are different.

First, you should notice that "inquire" and "require" look and sound very familiar, while "ask" is a totally different word. This gives you a little insight into the history of English. There's a lot to say about that topic, but you should know that "inquire" and "require" have Latin origins, while "ask" comes from Old English.

Almost 1000 years ago, English was mostly a mix of Northern European languages. Then, English was heavily influenced by French, which has its roots in Latin. As a result, modern English has a wide mix of origins, giving us many ways to say the same thing.

Today, we blend old and new words in Modern English without really thinking about it. But knowing about these different influences helps you make good choices when writing and speaking, as well as learning those tricky irregular spellings for verbs and plurals. They are really not irregular: they usually just come from the rules of Old English!

Generally speaking, words from Latin are a bit longer and can be broken down into parts, such as prefixes, suffixes and roots. For example, "inquire" and "require" share a common root, which is "quire." "Quire" comes from the Latin word relating to seeking or searching. The prefixes "in" and "re" change the meaning of each word in specific ways. In contrast, "ask" is a perfect example of an Old English word: short, flexible and packed with meaning.

All three words share the idea of requesting information or action, but they are used in different circumstances. "Ask" is the most flexible of the three, and you can use it in many different ways. It serves as both a transitive and intransitive verb, so you can ask someone to do something, ask for the bill, ask around or ask to leave. "Inquire" means to request information. It also can be transitive or intransitive, so you can inquire about the weather, inquire why they are leaving or inquire after his mother (checking on her health). "Require" means to need or to demand (ask someone strongly). It is only transitive, so you need an object each time. You can require some new supplies or require her to finish on time.

Now that you know the meanings of each word, knowing when to and how to use these words is often harder for language learners. The verb "ask" can actually be used in most in almost all of these examples above, while the Latin-based words "inquire" and "require" are used for specific circumstances. A guideline is to understand that English speakers often perceive Latin- or Greek-based words as being more precise and more sophisticated, especially in writing. However, students can use these words too much and their language can sound unnatural. Just stay clear and simple and you will quickly learn when to add more colorful words for effect.

Author has a Master's Degree in Communication and is currently teaching at EF English First Indonesia, the world's largest language school. Find out more about his favorite English course http://www.englishfirst.co.id/englishfirst/englishstudy/oralenglish.aspx at EF English First.