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.

But Mejia said that with just five investigators, it’s “next to impossible” to investigate all of the 700 waste, fraud and abuse claims his office receives each year.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

The department archived and later restored mention of a policy that said the government can’t investigate individuals lawfully protesting government activities.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

Labour MP Phil Brickell has urged the watchdog to investigate donations made to Restore Britain by the anonymous creators of digital currency Britain Token.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Researchers will use it to investigate dark energy, the mysterious force believed to make up about 70% of the cosmos.

From Science Daily • Apr. 28, 2026

Nhamo quickly tied her dress-cloth and went to investigate.

From "A Girl Named Disaster" by Nancy Farmer

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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