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.

This time, Florida Board of Governors chairman Alan Levine has written Ray Rodrigues, chancellor of Florida’s State University System, asking him to investigate whether Mr. Hosseini overstepped his authority in the selection process.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 25, 2026

City Council to limit so-called pretextual stops, in which officers pull people over for minor traffic infractions in order to investigate more serious offenses.

From Los Angeles Times • May 24, 2026

In January, regulators said they would investigate competition among food-delivery platforms to rein in price wars that erode profits and contribute to deflationary pressure.

From Barron's • May 23, 2026

To investigate the atmosphere of TOI-199b, researchers used a method called transmission spectroscopy.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

“I think we need to go investigate it,” I say.

From "A Rover's Story" by Jasmine Warga

Vocabulary lists containing investigate

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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List 8

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Word Generation Science - Preparing a Scientific Investigation

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