Meaning & Definition of word "Investigate"

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    Investigate

    /ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪt/

    verb:

    • 1. To carry out a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an issue, situation, or incident.
      • Example: The police will investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
    • 2. To examine or consider in detail.
      • Example: Scientists are investigating the effects of climate change on polar bears.
    • 3. To conduct research or inquiry into.
      • Example: He decided to investigate the history of his family.
    • 4. To seek information or clarify something.
      • Example: We need to investigate how the data was leaked.

    Etymology

    From Latin 'investigatus', past participle of 'investigare', meaning 'to track or search in'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    investigate further:

    To conduct more detailed inquiries into a matter.

    investigate a case:

    To look deeply into the details of a particular incident or crime.

    investigate claims:

    To thoroughly examine the validity of certain assertions.

    Related Words

    investigation:

    The act of investigating or an inquiry.

    investigator:

    A person who investigates or conducts inquiries.

    Slang Meanings of investigate

    Meaning: Digging for info

    Example Sentence: I'm just digging for info on that new project.

    Meaning: Snooping around

    Example Sentence: She was snooping around to find out the truth.