investigate
verb (used with object)
to examine, study, or inquire into systematically; search or examine into the particulars of; examine in detail.
was investigating
-
past progressiveof investigate.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
On Tuesday, the Journal reported that the Federal Bureau of Investigation was investigating the Brooklyn, N.Y.-based autism-therapy company.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 5, 2026
In February, Edison disclosed that the Los Angeles County district attorney was investigating whether Edison should be criminally charged for its actions leading to the Eaton fire.
From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 3, 2026
As the AFP photos of the attack gained attention, several Israeli media outlets, without citing named sources, said incorrectly that the Israeli military was investigating whether the photographer had a tipoff on the attack.
From Barron's ● Oct. 23, 2026
At roughly the same time, Collins was investigating how coral diseases develop and spread.
From Science Daily ● Oct. 19, 2026
Mom said she learned the FBI was investigating her during our vacation.
From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller
