Synonyms of probe

probe 1 of 2

noun

ˈprōb 

as in investigation

a systematic search for the truth or facts about something

a congressional probe into the accusations

Synonyms & Similar Words

• investigation
• inquiry
• probing
• examination
• exploration
• study
• research
• inspection
• inquisition
• inquest
• probation
• delving
• survey
• disquisition
• questionnaire
• audit
• examen
• interrogation
• quest
• diagnosis
• hearing
• question
• trial
• checkup
• query
• poll
• feeler
• challenge
• check
• grilling
• reinvestigation
• cross-examination
• rehearing
• quiz
• soul-searching
• questionary
• self-examination
• going-over
• self-reflection
• self-scrutiny
• self-questioning
• self-exploration

probe

2 of 2

verb

1

as in to investigate

to search through or into

tabloid reporters who seem determined to probe every detail of the singer's private life

Synonyms & Similar Words

• investigate
• explore
• examine
• research
• look (into)
• inquire (into)
• inspect
• scan
• dig (into)
• delve (into)
• study
• check into
• check up on
• view
• sift
• skim (through)
• thumb (through)
• peruse
• surf
• browse
• reinvestigate
• cruise

2

as in to explore

to go into or range over for purposes of discovery

probing the depths of the undersea trench

Synonyms & Similar Words

• explore
• search
• prospect
• hunt
• discover
• skirr
• reveal
• disclose
• scout
• unearth
• reconnoiter
• plumb
• fathom
• sound

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb probe differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of probe are enter, penetrate, and pierce. While all these words mean "to make way into something," probe implies penetration to investigate or explore something hidden from sight or knowledge.

probed the depths of the sea

When is it sensible to use enter instead of probe?

In some situations, the words enter and probe are roughly equivalent. However, enter is the most general of these and may imply either going in or forcing a way in.

entered the city in triumph

When is penetrate a more appropriate choice than probe?

The meanings of penetrate and probe largely overlap; however, penetrate carries a strong implication of an impelling force or compelling power that achieves entrance.

the enemy penetrated the fortress

When might pierce be a better fit than probe?

While in some cases nearly identical to probe, pierce means an entering or cutting through with a sharp pointed instrument.

pierced the boil with a lancet

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of probe

Noun

The probe, announced this week, is the second major inquiry in three years against global tech firms undertaken by Nigeria, and points to growing global concerns over firms using proprietary third-party content to train AI models. — Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 10 July 2026

The Clippers and the Toronto Raptors announced this week their trade involving Leonard is on hold pending the outcome of the league probe. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 10 July 2026

Verb

The cutbacks and mixed messaging has undermined unity at the alliance, just as Russia has been probing Europe’s defenses with drone flights near military bases across multiple countries, according to a study released on Thursday. — Lorne Cook, Fortune, 5 July 2026

Opting to take a lineout from a handy penalty — a theme of the first round in which teams generally have shunned kicks at goal — Scotland probed the narrow side then scored on the open side through Brown to make the lead nine points. — ABC News, 4 July 2026