Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

investigate

[in-ves-ti-geyt] / ɪnˈvɛs tɪˌgeɪt /
VERB
check into thoroughly
Synonyms
STRONGEST
consider examine explore inspect interrogate probe question review scrutinize search study
STRONG
bug case delve dig eyeball frisk inquire muckrake poke prospect pry read reconnoiter research scout sift spy tap wiretap
WEAK
be all ears check out check over check up feel out give the once-over go into inquisite listen in look into look over make inquiry nose around put to the test run down stake out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
answer forget ignore neglect reply
STRONG
leave alone overlook

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Last month, her family took legal action against the Los Angeles Unified School District, alleging that school officials failed to investigate reports of bullying, adequately supervise student interactions or implement effective safety measures.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

Police chief Chris Balmer has been tasked with leading the new initiative to help forces investigate and tackle "anti-democratic crimes".

From BBC • Apr. 2, 2026

Metro shut down parts of its network after its security team detected hacking activity last month, and law enforcement and cybersecurity specialists are continuing to investigate who was behind the attack, authorities said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

The court can investigate this and other missile strikes in what it regards as Palestinian territory.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Hoover had already assigned White to investigate one of the first law-enforcement corruption cases to be pursued in the wake of Teapot Dome.

From "Killers of the Flower Moon" by David Grann

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.