Synonyms for

Investigative

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

Definition

relating to or used for investigative purposes

Synonyms & similar words

factfinding investigatory detective exploratory fact-finding inquisitive inquiry inquiring inquest inspective inspect inspectory investigating judicial penetrative perceptive probative probing querying research searching studious

Synonyms by register

Formal

inquisitive exploratory analytical research-oriented

Informal

nosy prying digging snoopy

Literary

probing discerning

Antonyms

uninquiring unobservant superficial cursory passive uninterested

Common collocations

  • investigative journalism
  • investigative process
  • investigative techniques
  • investigative mind
  • investigative report
  • investigative body
  • investigative powers

Word family

noun investigation
verb investigate
adverb investigatively

Usage note

Primarily used to describe activities related to discovering facts or truth, often in a formal or official context like journalism or law enforcement. Avoid informal synonyms like 'nosy' in professional settings.

Example sentences

  1. The investigative journalist uncovered corruption in the government.
  2. The police used investigative techniques to solve the case.
  3. The scientist conducted an investigative experiment to test her hypothesis.
  4. The lawyer used investigative skills to gather evidence for the trial.
  5. The FBI conducted an investigative interview with the suspect.

Quotes

  • Investigative journalism is the kind of journalism that requires a lot of courage and a willingness to go out and find stories that people don't want you to cover.
  • The art of investigative journalism is not just about finding information, but understanding it and then presenting it in a way that is compelling.
  • Investigative reporting is the lifeblood of any democracy.

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