to inquire
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to inquire
To ask a formal or polite question in order to obtain information, an offer, or permission.
Wir sollten bei der Fluggesellschaft anfragen, ob noch Plätze frei sind.
We should inquire with the airline whether there are still seats available.
'Anfragen' (to inquire) is a separable verb. The prefix 'an-' goes at the end in a main clause. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Ich frage morgen bei der Personalabteilung an.
I will inquire with the HR department tomorrow.
Normally, you 'anfragen bei' a person or institution. This construction with the preposition 'bei' (with/at) is very typical for this verb.
Haben Sie schon bei der zuständigen Behörde angefragt?
Have you already inquired with the responsible authority?
'Anfragen' (to inquire) is used for polite and formal requests, especially in business or official contexts. It sounds more formal than the simple verb 'fragen' (to ask).
Wir möchten anfragen, ob eine Besichtigung des Objekts möglich wäre.
We would like to inquire whether a viewing of the property would be possible.
to ask
'fragen' and 'anfragen' both mean that you want to get information, an offer, or sometimes permission. 'fragen' is the normal word for everyday situations and direct conversations. 'anfragen' sounds more formal and often fits emails, companies, authorities, or offers. It is usually not about a quick personal question, but about a polite or business-related inquiry. The words can be confused because both express asking a question. In everyday life, people usually say 'fragen'; in official or professional situations, they often use 'anfragen'.
Herr Neumann fragt bei der Firma ein Angebot für neue Büromöbel an.
Mr. Neumann inquires with the company about an offer for new office furniture.
Die Kundin fragt den Verkäufer, ob das Ladegerät zu ihrem Handy passt.
The customer asks the salesperson whether the charger fits her phone.