What is investigate? Pronunciation and usage in English

investigate means . Learn how to pronounce and use investigate through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of investigate

investigateverb

/ɪnˈvɛstɪɡeɪt/
Definition & pronunciation of investigate

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "investigate" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown:

1. Segmenting the Word:

  • in-ves-ti-gate

2. Pronunciation of Each Part:

  • in: Like the "in" in "in" - /ɪn/ (a short, quick sound)
  • ves: This is the trickiest part! It's a blend of sounds:
    • v: Like the "v" in "van" - /v/
    • e: Like the "e" in "bed" - /ɛ/ (short 'e' sound)
    • s: Like the "s" in "sun" - /s/
    • Together: It sounds a bit like "vess," but shorter and quicker. Think of it as almost like "vuh-st." It’s a subtle sound, and where many people stumble.
  • ti: Like the "ti" in "time" - /tɑɪ/ (a diphthong – a gliding sound between ‘t’ and ‘i’)
  • gate: Like "gate" - /ɡeɪt/ (rhymes with "late")

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly at first: "in-vess-ti-gate"

Then, gradually speed it up. It should sound something like: in-ves-ti-gate (with a quick "vess" sound).

Tips & Resources:

  • Listen to Native Speakers: This is the best way to learn! Here are some resources:

    • Google Search: Search "how to pronounce investigate" on Google and listen to the audio results.
    • Forvo: (https://forvo.com/word/%2Investigate/) This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.
    • YouTube: Search for videos like "How to Pronounce Investigate" on YouTube.

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

  • Focus on the "vess" sound: Really concentrate on getting that quick, blended sound of "vuh-st."

To help me give you even more targeted advice, would you like me to:

  • Focus specifically on just the "vess" sound?
  • Give you example sentences to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word investigate in English

Let's break down how to use the word "investigate" in English. It's a versatile word with a specific meaning, but it's used in a variety of contexts.

1. Core Meaning: To Examine Carefully

At its most basic, "investigate" means to examine something thoroughly and systematically, typically to discover information or solve a problem. It implies a deeper look than just a casual glance.

  • Example: "The police are investigating the robbery." (They are carefully looking into the details of the crime.)
  • Example: "Scientists investigated the cause of the disease." (They studied it systematically to find out what was responsible.)

2. Different Contexts & Ways to Use It

Here's how "investigate" can be used in various situations:

  • Criminal Justice: This is the most common association.

    • "The FBI is investigating a potential terrorist threat."
    • "The detectives are investigating the circumstances of the victim’s death."

  • Research & Science:

    • "Researchers investigated the effects of the new drug on patients."
    • "The team investigated the geological formations in the area."

  • Business/Finance:

    • "The company is investigating rumors of fraud."
    • "We need to investigate the potential for expansion in this market."

  • Personal Matters/Problems: (Sometimes more informal)

    • “I need to investigate this strange noise in the attic.” (Looking for the source)
    • "Let’s investigate why your computer is running so slowly." (Troubleshooting)

  • Figurative Use: (Less common, but possible) – To explore or examine deeply.

    • “He’s investigating the meaning of life.” (Trying to understand a complex idea)

3. Phrases Using "Investigate"

  • Investigate a matter: (To look into a specific issue)
  • Investigate thoroughly: (To examine in great detail)
  • Investigate the cause of...: (To find out why something happened)
  • Investigate allegations: (To examine claims that have been made)
  • Let's investigate this further: (Let's do more research)

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings)

  • Examine
  • Study
  • Probe
  • Explore
  • Research
  • Analyze

5. Important Note: "Investigate" vs. "Investigation"

  • Investigate is the verb – the action of examining.
  • Investigation is the noun – the process of examining or the result of an examination.
    • "The investigation revealed several inconsistencies."

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use "investigate" in? (e.g., a school assignment, a conversation, a writing project?)
  • Can you provide a sentence or situation where you're thinking of using the word?

Synonyms for the word investigate

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