What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
investigative
Example
The detective conducted an investigative interview with the suspect. [investigative: adjective]
Example
The journalist's investigative reporting uncovered corruption within the government. [investigative: adjective]
probing
Example
The therapist used probing questions to help the patient explore their emotions. [probing: adjective]
Example
The doctor performed a probing of the wound to assess the extent of the injury. [probing: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Investigative is more commonly used than probing in everyday language, especially in the context of law enforcement and journalism. Probing is more commonly used in medical and psychological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between investigative and probing?
Investigative is typically associated with a serious and formal tone, while probing can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but may have a slightly negative connotation in some situations.
