Synonyms for

Detectives

Verb / dɪˈtektɪvz / Another word for detectives — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Detectives are people whose job is to investigate crimes and gather evidence to solve cases.

Synonyms & similar words

tec investigator detective policedetective investigators inspectors sleuths spies agents gumshoes shamus sherlocks constables cops crimefighters lawmen policemen patrolmen detecters discoverers disclosers

Synonyms by register

Formal

investigator inquisitor examiner

Informal

gumshoe private eye shamus PI

Literary

sleuth tracker

Antonyms

amateur observer bystander layperson civilian

Common collocations

  • private detective
  • police detective
  • detective agency
  • detective work
  • chief detective
  • detective story
  • detective novel

Word family

noun detective
verb detect
adjective detective
adverb detectably

Usage note

The term 'detective' most commonly refers to a person, often a police officer, who investigates crimes. 'Private detective' or 'private investigator' specifies someone working independently.

Example sentences

  1. The detectives were able to find the missing jewelry.
  2. The detectives worked hard to solve the case.
  3. The detectives followed the suspect to the warehouse.
  4. The detectives interviewed witnesses to gather information.
  5. The detectives used fingerprints to identify the suspect.

Quotes

  • The job of the detective is not to know everything, but to know where to find it.
  • When a crime is discovered, the first thing that is done is a detective is called in.
  • The detective story is a kind of intellectual game.

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