investigation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
investigation Word Meanings
- the act of examining something carefully
- a formal inquiry or systematic study
- the process of discovering facts about a crime or situation
investigation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
investigation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˌvɛstɪˈɡeɪʃən/
US
/ɪnˌvɛstɪˈɡeɪʃən/
investigation Word Etymology
in- = not + vestigare = to track down. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a detective piecing together clues like a puzzle, searching for tracks leading to the truth.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean over the desk, move a folder aside, and set a notebook in front of me. I pull out photos, adjust the lighting, and keep my attention steady on the details. With every turn of a page, questions shift and I feel the puzzle click into place. What begins as scattered clues becomes a simple, careful routine—an investigation formed by gathering, testing, and placing facts into a story.
Real Context
An investigation is a careful process of looking into facts to uncover what happened, usually in a formal or systematic way. It can refer to examining evidence in everyday tasks or to a formal inquiry by authorities. A good investigation involves organizing information, asking questions, testing hypotheses, and drawing reasoned conclusions. It may be conducted to solve a crime, resolve a dispute, or study a phenomenon in research. The word emphasizes method, objective analysis, and patience, rather than quick guessing. Common collocations include conduct an investigation, launch an investigation, piece together clues, gather evidence, and report findings. Understanding these nuances helps learners choose the right noun in different contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Investigation is a noun, not a verb.
- Use conduct an investigation or launch an investigation.
- Say 'an investigation into' a topic, or 'an investigation of' a person.
- It is countable: one investigation, several investigations.
- Common contexts: crime, journalism, academic research.
Common Misconceptions
- Investigation is the same as a crime scene investigation or police work.
- It is always about solving crimes; it cannot be used for everyday research.
- It is a verb (to investigate) rather than a noun.
- It means you already know the truth.
- It is quick or casual; it doesn’t require planning.
Thinking Differences
English typically treats investigation as a formal, process-oriented noun, used across crime, research, and journalism. Learners often mix it with the verb form (investigate) or confuse it with the person (investigator).
Learning Tips
- Learn the key noun form and common collocations.
- Distinguish investigation (noun) from investigate (verb).
- Use 'investigation into' or 'investigation of' to show focus.
- Practice with different contexts: crime, journalism, research.
- Mind the plural: investigations.
- Learn the formal verbs: conduct, launch, carry out an investigation.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'investigation'?
A.Jump
B.Laugh
C.Research
D.Sing
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'investigation' correctly?
A.The detective played the investigation game.
B.I saw a funny investigation on TV.
C.The police conducted an investigation into the crime.
D.She loves to investigation new things.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'investigation'?
A.Sleep
B.Analysis
C.Eat
D.Exercise
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'investigation'?
A.Confusion
B.Happiness
C.Ignorance
D.Bravery
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'investigation'?
A.She baked a delicious cake for her birthday party.
B.He went for a walk in the park.
C.The company hired a team for investigation into financial fraud.
D.They organized a picnic at the beach.
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