inquisitively

/ɪnˈkwɪzətɪvli/ (bre, ipa) · /ɪnˈkwɪzətɪvli/ (ame, ipa) · /|ə̇vlē, -li/ (ame, mw)

inquisitively — adverb

1. doing or saying something in a way that shows a strong desire to learn more abou

1.副詞B2
釋義

doing or saying something in a way that shows a strong desire to learn more about it, especially when the person is carefully observing, asking questions, or exploring something unfamiliar.

例句

Ana tilted her head and studied the strange brass instrument inquisitively.

Inquisitively, Tariq asked the tour guide about every painting in the gallery.

sentence-initial position for emphasis

同義詞
  • curiously

    wider in range — can also mean 'strangely' (e.g. 'curiously quiet'); 'inquisitively' is more focused on active investigation

  • nosily

    negative connotation of prying into private matters, while 'inquisitively' is neutral or positive

  • interestedly

    milder and less intense; suggests passive attention rather than active probing

反義詞

文法句型

[verb] + inquisitively

Inquisitively, [clause]

用法筆記

Typically placed after the verb or at the start of a clause for emphasis. Common with verbs of looking, asking, examining, or investigating — actions that involve active discovery rather than passive waiting.

常見錯誤

❌She asked inquisitive about the new policy.
✅She asked inquisitively about the new policy.
💡'inquisitive' is an adjective and cannot modify a verb; the adverb 'inquisitively' is required.