detective

[dɪˈtɛktɪv]

detective Definition

a person, especially a police officer, whose job is to investigate crimes and find out who is responsible for them.

Using detective: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "detective" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The detective was able to solve the case quickly.

  • Example

    She works as a detective for the homicide division.

  • Example

    The novel features a retired detective who is called back to solve one last case.

detective Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for detective

Phrases with detective

  • the process of investigating a crime or mystery

    Example

    The detective work on the case was thorough and meticulous.

  • a genre of fiction in which a detective solves a crime or series of crimes

    Example

    Agatha Christie is known for her detective stories featuring Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple.

  • detective novel

    a novel in the detective fiction genre

    Example

    The detective novel was a bestseller, with readers eagerly trying to solve the mystery alongside the protagonist.

Origins of detective

from Latin 'detectus', meaning 'uncovered'

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Summary: detective in Brief

A 'detective' [dɪˈtɛktɪv] is a person, often a police officer, whose job is to investigate crimes and determine who is responsible. The term spans contexts from real-life detectives to fictional ones, such as in 'detective stories' and 'detective novels.' 'Detective work' refers to the process of investigating a crime or mystery.

How do native speakers use this expression?