Another Word for Investigate: 12 Synonyms with Examples
To investigate is to carry out a careful search or study to find out the truth. Alternatives can be more casual, more formal or more focused on judgement.
As a verb: find out the facts
As a verb: check carefully
- check
- inspect
- scrutinise
- review
- audit
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- look into
- Informal and less thorough.
- inquire into
- Formal; often an official investigation.
- probe
- Investigates deeply, often something suspected but hidden.
- research
- Studies systematically to gain new knowledge.
- audit
- An official check of accounts or processes.
- scrutinise
- Examines very closely for faults.
Example sentences
- look into: The manager promised to look into the missing order.
- inquire into: A committee will inquire into the handling of the contract.
- probe: Reporters probed links between the two companies.
- research: She researched the history of the village for her dissertation.
- audit: External accountants audit the charity's books every year.
- scrutinise: Every application is scrutinised by two reviewers.
Opposite of investigate
- ignore
- overlook
- disregard
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “investigate”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: inquire, enquire
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “investigate”?
The most useful alternatives are “examine”, “look into”, “inquire into”, “probe”, “research”. For the main sense (find out the facts), “examine” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “look into” and “inquire into”?
look into: Informal and less thorough. inquire into: Formal; often an official investigation.
What is the opposite of “investigate”?
Common antonyms are “ignore”, “overlook”, “disregard”.