What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
interrogative
Example
Is this your first time visiting our store? [interrogative: adjective]
Example
Why did you leave the party early? [interrogative: noun]
Example
She spoke in an interrogative tone, as if unsure of what to say next. [interrogative: adjective]
probing
Example
The journalist asked probing questions to get to the heart of the matter. [probing: adjective]
Example
The detective conducted a probing investigation to solve the crime. [probing: noun]
Example
She kept probing him for more details about his past, even though he seemed uncomfortable. [probing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Interrogative is more commonly used than probing in everyday language. Interrogative is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while probing is more specific and often used in investigations or inquiries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between interrogative and probing?
Probing is typically associated with a more formal tone, as it is often used in professional or investigative contexts. Interrogative can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
