investigator

word · lemma: investigate

/ˌɪnˈvɛstəˌɡeɪtɝ/
in-VES-tuh-gay-dur
/ɪnvˈɛstɪɡˌeɪtɐ/
in-VES-ti-gay-tuh

Definition

An investigator is a person whose job is to find facts, examine evidence, and discover the truth about a situation, crime, accident, or problem.

Usage & Nuances

Common in police, legal, insurance, and workplace contexts. 'Detective' is more specific to police work, while 'investigator' is broader. Common combinations include 'private investigator', 'lead investigator', and 'investigation team'.

Example Sentences

The investigator asked me a few questions.

basic

A private investigator was hired to track him down.

natural

The investigator looked at the broken window.

basic

She works as an investigator for the city.

basic

The insurance investigator said the fire did not look accidental.

natural

The lead investigator thinks they are finally close to the truth.

natural