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.

Detectives have been assigned to investigate the five burglaries.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2026

That being so, Congress certainly has the power to investigate, if that’s what the president’s doing.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

He called on the government to urgently investigate how widespread the issue was.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

To investigate, researchers studied adults with and without a PAM variant known as p.S539W.

From Science Daily • Apr. 12, 2026

Ambrose, aided by Jess Squirrel and Foremole, ventured out into the road to investigate.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

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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