query - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
query Word Meanings
- a question or request for information
- an inquiry or investigation
- to ask for information or data
query Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
query Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkwɪəri/
US
/ˈkwɪri/
query Word Etymology
Root: 'que' (to ask). Origin: Latin 'quaerere' → Old French 'querre' → English 'query'. Memory image: Imagine a person with a magnifying glass, seeking answers in a pile of questions, representing the act of inquiry.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean toward the screen, move my finger to the search box, and push Enter. Waiting comes in a short rhythm as the page shifts, I adjust my question and place my hands on the keyboard, letting the idea form. The cursor holds, and I feel the need to push for clearer information rise with it. When the answer appears, I keep the doorway open for more data, ready to ask again if needed.
Real Context
Query is a flexible word that can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun it often means a question or a request for information, appearing in both everyday speech and formal writing: for example a customer has a query about a bill, or a software log records a query to the database. As a verb, to query means to ask for information or data, or to interrogate a system to obtain answers. In professional contexts people often prefer inquiry or question when a more formal tone is desired, while query can sound technical or bureaucratic. Learners should note the pronunciation and understand that query describes the act of seeking information, not the information itself.
Usage Reminders
- • Stress the first syllable in query.
- • Use as a noun for a question or information request.
- • Use as a verb for asking information or data.
- • Distinguish between formal inquiry and the more technical sense of query.
- • Watch for collocations like query about or database query.
Common Misconceptions
- Query simply means a question; it does not imply a technical task.
- Query and question are interchangeable in all situations.
- To query always refers to finding information from a database.
- Query is casual everyday language.
- Pronunciation is not important for understanding meaning.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate formal inquiry from general questions, so learners should choose inquiry versus question based on tone and setting.
Learning Tips
- Learn the two main functions (noun and verb).
- Practice common collocations like query about, database query.
- Listen for formal vs casual contexts to choose inquiry vs query.
- Record yourself saying query to master the pronunciation.
- Read tech articles to see how query is used in databases.
- Use mock conversations to reinforce when to ask a query vs a question.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'query'?
A.Answer
B.Question
C.Statement
D.Fact
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is the word 'query' used correctly?
A.They cooked a delicious query.
B.He answered the query confidently.
C.She made a query to the teacher.
D.The query is blue.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'query'?
A.Inquiry
B.Response
C.Command
D.Demand
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'query'?
A.Silence
B.Conclusion
C.Answer
D.Solution
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use the word 'query' in a real-life situation?
A.Describing a recipe for cookies
B.Stating a fact about the weather
C.Asking a question about directions
D.Singing a song loudly
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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