B2noun2K

Investigation

UK /["/ɪnˌvestɪˈɡeɪʃn/"]/US /["/ɪnˌvestɪˈɡeɪʃn/"]/

Definition

an official examination of the facts about a situation, crime, etc.

In simple words: Looking into something to find out more about it.

Examples

  • The police launched an investigation into the missing person's case.
  • The investigation revealed several discrepancies in the financial records.
  • After a thorough investigation, the committee concluded that the allegations were unfounded.
  • The investigation into the fraud took several months to complete.
  • She was fascinated by the investigation process in forensic science.

Usage notes

Use 'investigation' in formal contexts, like police work or research. Avoid in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

investigation + of subject

Memory hint

Think of a detective with a magnifying glass, conducting an investigation.

Collocations

  • careful
  • close
  • detailed
  • carry out
  • conduct
  • pursue
  • demonstrate something
  • reveal something
  • show something
  • on investigation
  • under investigation
  • investigation into
  • the subject of an investigation
  • careful
  • close
  • detailed
  • carry out
  • conduct
  • pursue
  • demonstrate something
  • reveal something
  • show something
  • on investigation
  • under investigation
  • investigation into
  • the subject of an investigation

Synonyms

  • enquiry

Antonyms

  • disregard
  • neglect
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'invest' which means to put money into something.
  • Using 'investigation' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Mixing up 'investigation' with 'inspector', which refers to a person.