Interview vs. Inquiry — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 23, 2024
An interview involves structured questioning to assess a candidate or gather testimonial evidence, while an inquiry is a broader investigation into a subject or event.
Difference Between Interview and Inquiry
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An interview typically refers to a formal meeting in which one or more persons question, consult, or evaluate another person, often used in job recruitment or information gathering for journalism. Whereas an inquiry is more about seeking information or investigating into matters through questions, research, or formal proceedings.
During an interview, questions are often pre-determined and tailored to assess specific qualifications, skills, or opinions of the interviewee. On the other hand, an inquiry can involve open-ended questioning without a fixed framework, aiming to uncover broader knowledge or facts.
Interviews are commonly conducted face-to-face, via telephone, or online platforms, focusing on direct interaction with an individual or group. In contrast, inquiries can be conducted through various mediums, including literature review, surveys, or public hearings, and are not limited to personal interactions.
The outcome of an interview is typically decisive, such as a hiring decision or journalistic content creation, focusing on the responses of the interviewees. Whereas, the outcome of an inquiry is often exploratory, leading to findings, conclusions, or reports that might require further investigation or action.
Interviews are generally time-bound, with a clear start and end, and are structured around specific objectives. Inquiries, however, can vary significantly in duration and scope depending on the depth and breadth of the information sought.
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Comparison Chart
Purpose
To evaluate or gather information from a person
To investigate or gather information about a subject or event
Method
Structured questioning
Varied methods including questioning, research, or formal proceedings
Interaction
Direct, often personal
Can be indirect or through various mediums
Outcome
Decisive, such as a hiring decision or article
Exploratory, leading to findings or further questions
Duration
Typically time-bound
Can be extended or ongoing
Compare with Definitions
Interview
A formal meeting for obtaining information from individuals.
The company conducts interviews to select new employees.
Inquiry
An investigation conducted by authorities.
A judicial inquiry was set up to look into the allegations.
Interview
A session where experts are questioned to gather specialized knowledge.
The documentary included interviews with many historians.
Inquiry
A method to resolve doubts or questions.
He made an inquiry at the help desk about his lost luggage.
Interview
An evaluation process in professional settings.
His interview for the manager position went very well.
Inquiry
A questioning approach to learning.
The school's curriculum is based on inquiry-based learning.
Interview
A method used by journalists to gather detailed personal views.
She gave an interview about her latest book.
Inquiry
A formal examination into a matter of public interest.
The public inquiry exposed several regulatory failures.
Interview
A tool for qualitative research in social sciences.
The study used structured interviews to collect data from participants.
Inquiry
A process of seeking factual information.
The inquiry into the accident will reveal the cause.
Interview
An interview is essentially a structured conversation where one participant asks questions, and the other provides answers. In common parlance, the word "interview" refers to a one-on-one conversation between an interviewer and an interviewee.
Inquiry
An inquiry (also spelled as enquiry in British English) is any process that has the aim of augmenting knowledge, resolving doubt, or solving a problem. A theory of inquiry is an account of the various types of inquiry and a treatment of the ways that each type of inquiry achieves its aim.
Interview
A meeting of people face to face, especially for consultation.
Inquiry
The act of inquiring
Engaged in scientific inquiry.
Interview
Hold an interview with (someone)
She was interviewed by a reporter from the Daily News
Police are keen to interview two men seen nearby
Inquiry
A question; a query
There were many inquiries about the new tax rates.
Interview
A formal meeting in person, especially one arranged for the assessment of the qualifications of an applicant.
Inquiry
A close examination of a matter
A Congressional inquiry into the scandal.
Interview
A conversation, such as one conducted by a reporter, in which facts or statements are elicited from another.
Inquiry
The act of inquiring; a seeking of information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning.
Interview
An account or a reproduction of such a conversation.
Inquiry
Search for truth, information, or knowledge; examination of facts or principles; research; investigation
Scientific inquiry
Interview
(Informal) An interviewee
An actor who was a tough interview.
Inquiry
The act of inquiring; a seeking for information by asking questions; interrogation; a question or questioning.
He could no path nor track of foot descry,Nor by inquiry learn, nor guess by aim.
The men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate.
Interview
To obtain an interview from.
Inquiry
Search for truth, information, or knowledge; examination into facts or principles; research; investigation; as, physical inquiries.
All that is wanting to the perfection of this art will undoubtedly be found, if able men . . . will make inquiry into it.
Interview
To have an interview
Interviewed with a publishing company.
Inquiry
A search for knowledge;
Their pottery deserves more research than it has received
Interview
(obsolete) An official face-to-face meeting of monarchs or other important figures.
Inquiry
An instance of questioning;
There was a question about my training
We made inquiries of all those who were present
Interview
Any face-to-face meeting, especially of an official or adversarial nature.
Inquiry
A systematic investigation of a matter of public interest
Interview
A conversation in person (or, by extension, over the telephone, Internet etc.) between a journalist and someone whose opinion or statements he or she wishes to record for publication, broadcast etc.
The reporter gave the witness an interview.
Interview
A formal meeting, in person, for the assessment of a candidate or applicant.
It was a dreadful interview; I have no hope of getting the job.
Interview
An audition.
Interview
A police interrogation of a suspect or party in an investigation.
Interview
(transitive) To ask questions of (somebody); to have an interview.
He interviewed the witness.
The witness was interviewed.
Interview
(intransitive) To be interviewed; to attend an interview.
Interview
A mutual sight or view; a meeting face to face; usually, a formal or official meeting for consultation; a conference; as, the secretary had an interview with the President.
Interview
A conversation, or questioning, for the purpose of eliciting information for publication; the published statement so elicited.
Interview
To have an interview with; to question or converse with, especially for the purpose of obtaining information for publication.
Interview
The questioning of a person (or a conversation in which information is elicited); often conducted by journalists;
My interviews with teen-agers revealed a weakening of religious bonds
Interview
A conference (usually with someone important);
He had a consultation with the judge
He requested an audience with the king
Interview
Conduct an interview in television, newspaper, and radio reporting
Interview
Discuss formally with (somebody) for the purpose of an evaluation;
We interviewed the job candidates
Interview
Go for an interview in the hope of being hired;
The job candidate interviewed everywhere
Common Curiosities
What is an inquiry?
An inquiry is a process of investigating facts and information about a particular topic or event, often in a detailed and systematic way.
What outcomes are expected from interviews versus inquiries?
Interviews typically lead to immediate decisions or content creation, while inquiries may result in findings that necessitate further investigation or action.
Can an interview be part of an inquiry?
Yes, interviews can be used as a method of gathering information within a broader inquiry.
What skills are important for conducting inquiries?
Analytical skills, critical thinking, and a methodical approach are essential for conducting thorough inquiries.
How does the scope of interviews compare to inquiries?
Interviews have a narrower scope focusing on individuals' responses, while inquiries have a broader scope intended to explore wider issues or events.
What skills are important for conducting interviews?
Skills like active listening, questioning, and interpersonal communication are crucial for conducting effective interviews.
Are interviews formal or informal?
Interviews can be either formal or informal depending on their purpose and setting, such as formal job interviews versus informal journalistic discussions.
What is an interview?
An interview is a formal interaction where individuals are asked questions to assess their suitability or to gather specific information.
How do interviews and inquiries differ in method?
Interviews involve direct questioning of individuals, whereas inquiries may use various methods like research, surveys, or formal proceedings.
How long can an inquiry last?
Inquiries can last from a few days to several years, particularly in complex legal or governmental investigations.
In what contexts are interviews and inquiries used?
Interviews are common in employment, journalism, and research contexts, while inquiries are used in academic, legal, and public policy spheres.
Can the public participate in interviews and inquiries?
While interviews are usually restricted to the participants, inquiries, especially public ones, may allow for broader public involvement and observation.
Are inquiries always formal?
Inquiries can be either formal, such as judicial inquiries, or informal, such as academic research inquiries.
How long does an interview usually last?
Interviews typically last from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the context and objectives.
What is the role of documentation in interviews and inquiries?
Documentation is crucial in both, capturing responses in interviews and detailing findings and methodologies in inquiries.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
