Inquisitive: eager to ask and find out
Inquisitive means curious and eager to learn by asking questions. It comes from Latin inquisitivus, related to inquirere, meaning to seek or inquire. An inquisitive visitor may ask how an exhibit was made, though the same word can sound critical when someone's questions intrude into private matters.
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Curiosity expressed through questions
Inquisitive is an adjective for someone inclined to investigate or ask questions. It comes from Latin inquisitivus, related to inquirere, meaning to seek or inquire.
The tone depends on context. An inquisitive child asking how a lock works is usually being described positively. An inquisitive stranger asking about someone's private correspondence may be described less approvingly.
- An inquisitive visitor wants to understand the exhibit.
- An inquisitive question can open a useful explanation.
Look at the object of the curiosity. Questions about a public demonstration differ from questions about private affairs. If you intend praise, add a detail that makes the constructive interest clear, such as asking how the model was assembled.