Investigation

/ɪnˌvɛs.tɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The process of examining a situation or problem in detail to uncover the truth.

The police launched an investigation into the recent burglary.

A formal inquiry or systematic examination.

The investigation revealed several inconsistencies in the witness testimonies.

A detailed search for information about a particular subject.

Her investigation into climate change led to several important findings.

The act of investigating; careful or systematic inquiry or examination.

An investigation was conducted to determine the cause of the accident.

A process involving the collection of data or evidence.

The investigation into the financial records uncovered significant fraud.

Latin 'investigatio', from 'investigare' meaning 'to track' or 'to trace out'.

criminal investigation

A formal inquiry into a crime, often conducted by law enforcement.

internal investigation

An examination conducted within an organization, often to uncover misconduct.

investigation report

A document that summarizes the findings of an investigation.

investigator

A person who investigates, especially as a professional.

investigate

To carry out an inquiry or examination.

investigative

Characterized by a systematic examination.

Snooping

I caught him snooping around, looking for evidence.

Digging

The journalist was digging for the real story behind the scandal.