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.

To investigate the mechanisms involved, the researchers combined several different approaches.

From Science Daily • Jun. 11, 2026

The Labour government recently proposed giving councils new powers to force fly-tippers to clean up waste they have dumped, and giving the Environment Agency police-style powers to investigate major waste sites.

From BBC • Jun. 10, 2026

Now, federal officials will investigate possible violations and factors that could have contributed to the incident.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

It is far wiser to investigate now than to spend the next century composing another apology.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 10, 2026

“But you were right. We have to investigate everyone, just in case.”

From "A Monster of a Mystery (The Hardy Boys: Secret Files, #5)" by Franklin W. Dixon

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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