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.

Authorities will investigate the cause of the fall and Paton's body is expected to be transferred to a nearby town.

From BBC • May 22, 2026

To investigate the phenomenon, scientists combined satellite observations with photographs captured by citizen scientists across Japan.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

TRM approached Binance executives this January and asked if they would jointly investigate the funds and share findings with the U.S. to support sanctions, the sources said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 22, 2026

Justice Department, asking authorities to investigate alleged animal abuse on Skid Row.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

I could feel Mom look up at Mrs. Menzer over my shoulder, and I don’t know what they were communicating in their silent way, and for once I didn’t want to investigate.

From "The Science of Breakable Things" by Tae Keller

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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