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.

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

If adversaries can identify exploitable weaknesses at machine speed, the traditional defensive model—detect, investigate and respond—is under far greater strain than most admit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026

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

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn on Tuesday wrote a letter to the Federal Aviation Administration urging the agency to investigate the incident.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 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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