investigated

word · lemma: investigate

/ˌɪnˈvɛstəˌɡeɪtəd/
in-VES-tuh-gay-did
/ɪnvˈɛstɪɡˌeɪtɪd/
in-VES-ti-gay-tid

Definition

Checked something carefully to find out the facts about it, usually in a formal or official way.

Usage & Nuances

Formal and commonly used in news, academic, or police contexts. Often followed by 'by' to show who did it (e.g., 'was investigated by the police'). Do not confuse with 'interrogated' (questioned), which is different.

Example Sentences

The crime was investigated by the police.

basic

The company was investigated for corruption.

basic

They quickly investigated the rumors to find out the truth.

natural

Every complaint was carefully investigated before making a decision.

natural

By the time we arrived, the issue had already been investigated.

natural

The teacher investigated the missing books.

basic