Definition: A credit inquiry an entry on a credit report that shows a business has requested a copy of the report. "Hard" credit inquiries happen when a business checks your credit report because you've made an application for credit. On the other hand, "soft" credit inquiries are made by businesses that you already have a relationship with, business who want to advertise products or services to you, and your own credit report inquiries.
Ten percent of your credit score considers credit inquiries. In general, the more inquiries that appear on your credit report, the more your credit score will be impacted. Only "hard" credit inquiries affect your credit score.
