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.

WASHINGTON—The Justice Department told French law enforcement authorities it wouldn’t facilitate their efforts to investigate Elon Musk’s X, after a raid on the social-media platform’s Paris office earlier this year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 18, 2026

That would help prove to the EU that he is eager to fight corruption, but it only has the power to investigate the misuse of EU funds.

From BBC • Apr. 17, 2026

To investigate this mystery, Weber's team analyzed a global dataset and used computer models.

From Science Daily • Apr. 16, 2026

Detectives have been assigned to investigate the five burglaries.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

I remembered about a year ago, when the police got it in their minds to investigate all the witch doctors and rootworkers in the area.

From "Root Magic" by Eden Royce

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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