What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
explore
Example
We decided to explore the city on foot, visiting all the famous landmarks. [explore: verb]
Example
The scientists are exploring the possibility of life on other planets. [exploring: present participle]
Example
I like to explore new recipes in the kitchen. [explore: verb]
probe
Example
The detective probed the crime scene for clues. [probe: verb]
Example
The journalist probed the politician with tough questions during the interview. [probed: past tense]
Example
The doctor used a probe to check the patient's heart rate. [probe: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Explore is more commonly used than probe in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Probe is more technical and formal, and is often used in scientific or research contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between explore and probe?
Probe is more formal and technical than explore, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, both words can be used in formal settings depending on the context and tone of the communication.
