(xún) - to inquire & to ask

Tone 2

xún | 8 strokes | radical: 讠

· xún

to inquire;

to ask;

to consult;

to seek information or advice

to inquireto askto consult

Usage highlights

to inquireto consultinquiryto seek adviceto investigate and inquirequestionnaire

Synonyms

Antonyms

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • Please inquire at the information desk (咨询台).
  • He inquired about the schedule (询问 schedule).
  • We need to consult an expert (咨询专家).
  • The police are questioning witnesses (询问证人).

Collocations

  • to inquire(询问)
  • to consult(咨询)
  • inquiry(查询)
  • to seek advice(征询)
  • to investigate and inquire(探询)
  • questionnaire(问卷)

Idioms

  • Seek advice from the grass and firewood carriers(询于刍荛)
  • Inquire about everything(询事考言)
  • Consult the people and investigate public opinion(询谋谘度)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Reflects the Confucian value of seeking knowledge and advice from others.
  • In traditional Chinese culture, consulting elders and experts before important decisions is highly valued.

FAQ