What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inspector
Example
The food inspector checked the restaurant's kitchen for cleanliness. [inspector: noun]
Example
The inspector general is responsible for investigating fraud and abuse within government agencies. [inspector: noun]
Example
The inspector arrived at the crime scene to gather evidence and interview witnesses. [inspector: noun]
investigator
Example
The insurance investigator looked into the cause of the fire. [investigator: noun]
Example
The police investigator interviewed witnesses and gathered evidence to solve the case. [investigator: noun]
Example
The scientist conducted an investigation to determine the effects of climate change on the ecosystem. [investigation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inspector is more commonly used than investigator in everyday language, especially in professional and formal contexts. Investigator is more commonly used in legal and criminal justice contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inspector and investigator?
Inspector is more formal than investigator, and is often used in professional and government contexts. Investigator is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
