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

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 travel delays and cancellations come as investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board continue their probe into the crash that killed two members of the Air Canada flight crew Sunday night. —Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 25 Mar. 2026

The document offers a snapshot of an early moment in special counsel Jack Smith’s investigation and adds new shading to the public understanding of Smith’s probes. —Jeremy Roebuck, Washington Post, 25 Mar. 2026

Verb

Hubble's images help track seasonal changes, while Webb's infrared vision probes different atmospheric layers. —Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 26 Mar. 2026

Investigators continue to probe for answers in Sunday's deadly collision at LaGuardia Airport, as officials examine why a runway safety system failed to issue an alert before a Port Authority fire truck crashed into a landing passenger airplane. —Minyvonne Burke, NBC news, 25 Mar. 2026