Probing
ˈproʊbɪŋ
Definitions
3 meaningsTo physically investigate or explore something; to examine or inspect carefully.
ˈproʊb
To physically explore or examine.
The detective probed the crime scene for evidence.
💡 Simply: Like a detective searching for clues, probing means looking closely, usually with a tool or your hands, to see what's there or to find out more.
👶 For kids: To use a tool or your finger to look carefully inside something to see what's there.
More Examples
She probed the soil to check for moisture.
The dentist probed the cavity to determine its depth.
How It's Used
"The doctor is probing the wound to check for infection."
"The engineer probed the circuit to diagnose the fault."
To question closely; to search or examine thoroughly; to try to discover the facts about something.
ˈproʊb
To inquire into; examine thoroughly.
The journalist was probing the truth about the scandal.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're trying to find out a secret. Probing means asking questions, looking at the details, and digging deep to get the full story.
👶 For kids: To ask a lot of questions to find out a secret or a mystery.
More Examples
The lawyer probed the witness's testimony.
They probed the company's financial records for irregularities.
How It's Used
"The reporters were probing the politician's financial dealings."
"The company is probing the reasons behind the decline in sales."
Inquiring closely; penetrating; searching.
ˈproʊbɪŋ
Inquisitive and searching.
The author wrote a probing analysis of the situation.
💡 Simply: Describing something that is designed to dig deep and get the full story.
👶 For kids: Asking a lot of questions to find out the truth.
More Examples
The judge asked probing questions during the trial.
Her probing gaze made him uncomfortable.
How It's Used
"The therapist gave a probing interview."
"A probing documentary."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
probing questions
Questions intended to elicit a detailed or revealing answer.
"The journalist asked a series of probing questions during the press conference."
probing examination
A detailed and careful examination.
"The doctor conducted a probing examination to assess the patient's condition."
From Middle English *proben*, from Old French *prover* ('to try, test, examine'), from Latin *probāre* ('to test, approve').
The word 'probe' and its derivatives have been used for centuries, initially referring to physical examinations but later extending to inquiries and investigations.
Memory tip
Imagine using a metal rod to find something hidden deep underground.