Pynthánomai (πυνθάνομαι) means to inquire, to ask questions, to seek information. It implies deliberate inquiry — asking to find out something specific.
The word appears at key moments. Matthew 2:4: Herod 'asked' where the Messiah was to be born — sinister inquiry with murderous intent. John 4:52: a royal official 'inquired' at what hour his son recovered — discovering healing simultaneous with Jesus' word. Acts 10:18: Cornelius' men ask for Peter. Inquiry is not inherently good or bad — the disposition of the heart matters. True seekers find (Matthew 7:7-8); those who inquire to destroy are judged.