xúnwèn

Xúnwèn is a Mandarin Chinese term that translates to "inquire," "ask," or "seek information." It is a common verb used in everyday conversation and formal contexts alike to describe the act of asking questions or seeking knowledge.

The character 询 (xún) means to inquire or ask, while 问 (wèn) means to ask or question. Together, xúnwèn forms a compound word that emphasizes a more deliberate and often thorough process of seeking information. It can imply a desire to understand something deeply or to gather specific details.

Examples of its usage include asking for directions, inquiring about a product in a store, or seeking clarification on a complex topic. In a formal setting, a journalist might xúnwèn a politician for their stance on an issue, or a student might xúnwèn a professor for more information about a research paper. The term can also be used in a broader sense to refer to the act of researching or investigating.