investigate

[ɪnˈvɛstɪɡeɪt]

investigate Definition

carry out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of (an incident, allegation, etc.) so as to establish the truth.

Using investigate: Examples

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

• Example

  The police are investigating the murder case.

• Example

  The committee was set up to investigate allegations of corruption.

• Example

  We need to investigate the cause of the problem.

• Example

  The company is being investigated for fraud.

investigate Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for investigate

• examine
• probe
• explore
• scrutinize
• inspect

Antonyms for investigate

• ignore
• neglect

Idioms Using investigate

• leave no stone unturned

  to make every possible effort to achieve a goal or find a solution to a problem

  Example

  The investigators left no stone unturned in their efforts to solve the case.

• get to the bottom of something

  to find out the real cause or explanation of something

  Example

  The journalist was determined to get to the bottom of the scandal and investigate all leads.

• follow a lead

  to pursue a clue or hint that may help in solving a mystery or crime

  Example

  The detective decided to follow a lead that he had received from an informant.

Phrases with investigate

• investigate into

  to carry out an investigation into something

  Example

  The authorities are investigating into the matter.

• investigate a crime

  to conduct an inquiry into a criminal act

  Example

  The detective was assigned to investigate the crime.

• investigate a complaint

  to look into a grievance or accusation made by someone

  Example

  The ombudsman was asked to investigate the complaint.

Origins of investigate

from Latin 'investigare', meaning 'to trace out'

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Summary: investigate in Brief

To 'investigate' [ɪnˈvɛstɪɡeɪt] means to carry out a systematic inquiry into an incident or allegation to establish the truth. It involves examining the facts and exploring the cause of the problem. The term extends into phrases like 'investigate into' and idioms like 'leave no stone unturned,' implying thoroughness and determination.