Investigation
/ɪnˌvestɪˈɡeɪʃən/
Definitions
A formal or systematic examination or inquiry into something to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation, etc. to establish the truth.
/ɪnˌvestɪˈɡeɪʃən/
A formal or systematic examination or research into something.
The government launched an investigation into the allegations of corruption.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to figure out what happened to your missing cookie. An investigation is like that, but for bigger mysteries! It's carefully looking for clues and asking questions to find out the truth.
👶 For kids: When you try to find out what happened, like when you're looking for your missing toy!
More Examples
The investigation revealed a series of errors and oversights.
A full investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fire.
How It's Used
"The police are conducting a thorough investigation into the robbery."
"The journalist launched an investigation to uncover the truth behind the scandal."
"The research team performed an investigation into the effects of the drug."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
under investigation
Being examined by officials or authorities in order to discover the facts about something.
"The CEO is currently under investigation for financial misconduct."
investigate a lead
To examine or follow up on a piece of information or clue to see if it is relevant.
"The detective decided to investigate the lead about a possible witness."
From Latin *investigatio* ('a tracking down, a search'), from the verb *investigare* ('to track, trace, examine'), from *in-* ('into') + *vestigare* ('to track, trace').
The word 'investigation' has been used in legal, scientific, and academic contexts since the 17th century.
Memory tip
Imagine detectives using magnifying glasses and notebooks to find clues.
Word Origin
"to track, trace"