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.

Senior Coroner for Essex, Lincoln Brookes, suspended proceedings at the request of Essex Police so the force could continue to investigate the death.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

Scotland had previously played a leading role in a project with European partners to investigate the use of hydrogen as a fuel for shipping.

From BBC • Apr. 21, 2026

The SEC has issued several valuation-related penalties this year and is forming a new group to investigate audit firm misconduct.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 20, 2026

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

Of course, no doubt they’d seen the smoke and flames from down in the city and come to investigate.

From "Beasts of Prey" by Ayana Gray

Vocabulary lists containing investigate

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List 8

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Word Generation Science - Preparing a Scientific Investigation

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