investigation

noun

Definition of investigationnext
as in inquiry
a systematic search for the truth or facts about something officials launched an extensive investigation of the plane crash

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of investigation The State Law Enforcement Division didn't say if their investigation into any of the men is continuing. — Meg Kinnard, Arkansas Online, 15 Oct. 2026 In January, the FBI raided a Post reporter’s home, as part of an investigation into a government contractor accused of mishandling sensitive national security information. — Chad De Guzman, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The investigations have also drawn scrutiny from progressives. — Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 15 Oct. 2026 Data associated with a criminal investigation may be stored indefinitely, the policy states. — Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 14 Oct. 2026 An independent investigation found no Title IX violations back in April, but Lechner's attorney says the investigation was flawed. — Jack Springgate, CBS News, 14 Oct. 2026 The Dateline Canada team, having reviewed police files on the case, claims to have uncovered an unreported police investigation. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 14 Oct. 2026 Neither corresponds to any investigation, case, incident, or call for service. — Cyrus Farivar, ArsTechnica, 14 Oct. 2026 Some have called for Kotlikoff’s resignation, while others have urged patience as independent investigations proceed. — Leah Willingham, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for investigation
  1. inquiry
  2. examination
  3. exploration
  4. study
  5. probe
  6. probing
  7. research
Noun
  • Waddhwa moved to strike a film development deal around the incident after getting unsolicited inquiries from Indian media firms.
    — Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Many of Netanyahu’s electoral rivals, including Eisenkot, have promised to immediately establish an independent commission of inquiry if elected.
    — Chas Newkey-Burden, TheWeek, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of inquiry
Noun
  • If Fielder is again playing a version of himself here, Holmes seems to be offering near infinite versions of herself up for examination, like a set of unblinking reflections in a hall of funhouse mirrors.
    — David Mack, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2026
  • The search and forensic examination of the property remain ongoing.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026
Definition of examination
Noun
  • With all the characters in the show, but with Margaret in particular, there’s this exploration of losing control, taking control and relinquishing control.
    — Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 11 Oct. 2026
  • Below the falls are limestone caves ripe for exploration, and hiking trails take visitors by the Rifle Falls Fish Hatchery, one of the largest trout-production hatcheries in Colorado.
    — Tiney Ricciardi, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2026
Definition of exploration
Noun
  • For now, the study identifies a previously underappreciated part of the immune system that could help overcome one of SCLC’s most persistent defenses.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 Oct. 2026
  • Clinically tested in a 16-week study, the fast-absorbing cream has stats to back up its benefits.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 14 Oct. 2026
Definition of study
Noun
  • Grill the potatoes, cut sides down first, then flip with tongs, until golden brown, crispy on the edges, and easily punctured by a thermometer probe.
    — Candy Hom, AJC.com, 10 Oct. 2026
  • Related Stories The Justice Department informed several of the networks of its probe on Friday, according to these people.
    — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 10 Oct. 2026
Definition of probe
Noun
  • There was Wall Street Journal reporter Josh Dawsey, accepting an award for his relentless probing of the White House.
    — Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 25 July 2026
  • But neither of them seemed eager to undergo much emotional probing.
    — Amy Weiss-Meyer, The Atlantic, 10 July 2026
Definition of probing
Noun
  • Meanwhile, our research shows that top CEOs gave themselves massive raises in 2025 and now make well over 300 times what typical workers are paid.
    — Liz Shuler, Time, 15 Oct. 2026
  • It's used in microbiology research involving proteins or DNA.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 15 Oct. 2026
Definition of research

Browse Nearby Words

investigating
investigation
investigations
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Cite this Entry

“Investigation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/investigation. Accessed 17 Oct. 2026.

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