Definition

1. Noun:

   • A question, especially one asking for information or expressing doubt: A "query" is a formal or specific question, often used in contexts like computing, research, or official inquiries.
   • A question mark: In some contexts, "query" can refer to the symbol "?".

2. Verb:

   • To ask a question or express doubt about something: To "query" means to ask for clarification or to question the accuracy or truth of a statement, fact, or data point.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The database can handle thousands of search queries per second.
  • I have a query regarding the instructions you sent.
  • She wrote a query in the margin of the report.

• Verb:

  • A few shareholders queried the CEO's compensation package.
  • I would query the source of that information.
  • The system queried the user for a password.

Advanced Usage

• "To raise a query": To formally ask a question or express a doubt.

  • Several delegates raised queries about the new policy.

• "A query language": In computing, a specialized language for retrieving information from databases (e.g., SQL - Structured Query Language).

  • Learning a query language is essential for data analysts.

Variants and Related Words

• Inquiry/Enquiry (n): A more formal word for an act of asking for information. Often used interchangeably with "query," though "inquiry" can imply a more thorough investigation.

  • The committee launched an official inquiry.

• Question (n/v): A more general term for an interrogative sentence or the act of asking. "Query" often implies a more precise or technical question.

Synonyms

• Noun: Question, inquiry, interrogation.
• Verb: Question, ask, challenge, dispute.

Related Phrases (Phrasal Verbs)

• Query someone about something: To ask someone specific questions regarding a topic.
  • The journalist queried the minister about the scandal.

Related Idioms

• Beyond query: Beyond question or doubt; indisputable.
  • His expertise in the field is beyond query. (Note: This is a less common, more formal usage.)

Noun

1. an instance of questioning
   • there was a question about my training
   • we made inquiries of all those who were present

Verb

1. pose a question