What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delve
Example
The journalist decided to delve deeper into the story to uncover the truth. [delve: verb]
Example
The book delves into the complexities of human relationships. [delve: verb]
probe
Example
The doctor used a probe to examine the patient's ear. [probe: noun]
Example
The detective probed the witness for more information. [probed: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Probe is more commonly used than delve in everyday language, especially in scientific or medical contexts. Delve is less common and is often used in academic or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delve and probe?
Both delve and probe are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic settings. However, probe may have a slightly more technical or scientific connotation than delve.