investigate
[ in-ves-ti-geyt ]
/ ɪnˈvɛs tɪˌgeɪt /
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verb (used with object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.
to examine, study, or inquire into systematically; search or examine into the particulars of; examine in detail.
to search out and examine the particulars of in an attempt to learn the facts about something hidden, unique, or complex, especially in an attempt to find a motive, cause, or culprit: The police are investigating the murder.
verb (used without object), in·ves·ti·gat·ed, in·ves·ti·gat·ing.
to make inquiry, examination, or investigation.
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“Was” is used for the indicative past tense of “to be,” and “were” is only used for the subjunctive past tense.
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Origin of investigate
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Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2021
Example sentences from the Web for investigate
British Dictionary definitions for investigate
investigate
/ (ɪnˈvɛstɪˌɡeɪt) /
verb
to inquire into (a situation or problem, esp a crime or death) thoroughly; examine systematically, esp in order to discover the truth
Derived forms of investigate
investigable, adjectiveinvestigative or investigatory, adjectiveWord Origin for investigate
C16: from Latin investīgāre to search after, from in- ² + vestīgium track; see vestige
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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