Top 64 Slang For Investigate – Meaning & Usage

Whether you’re a detective in training or just someone with a curious mind, knowing the right slang can take your investigative skills to the next level. From the streets to the newsroom, we’ve got you covered with a list of the top slang for investigate. So put on your detective hat and get ready to uncover the secrets with us.

Click above to generate some slangs

1. Dig

To “dig” means to thoroughly research or investigate something. It can be used to describe the act of gathering information or delving deep into a subject.

For example, a journalist might say, “I need to dig deeper into this story to uncover the truth.”
A detective might tell their partner, “Let’s dig into the suspect’s background and see if we find any connections.”
A student might say, “I need to dig into these textbooks to prepare for the exam.”

2. Scope out

To “scope out” means to observe or assess a situation or location, often with the intention of gathering information or planning. It can be used to describe the act of surveying an area or examining something closely.

For instance, someone planning a vacation might say, “I’m going to scope out the hotel reviews before booking.”
A spy might say, “I need to scope out the building to find the best entrance.”
A friend might suggest, “Let’s scope out the new restaurant and see if it’s worth trying.”

3. Look into

To “look into” means to investigate or examine something in order to gain more information or understanding. It can be used to describe the act of researching or exploring a particular topic or situation.

For example, a lawyer might say, “I’ll look into the case law to find precedents.”
A parent might tell their child, “I’ll look into that toy you want and see if it’s safe.”
A curious person might say, “I’m going to look into the history of this ancient artifact.”

4. Check out

To “check out” means to inspect or investigate something, often with the intention of verifying its condition or suitability. It can be used to describe the act of examining or assessing a person, place, or thing.

For instance, a car buyer might say, “I’m going to check out this used car before making a decision.”
A manager might tell their employee, “Please check out this report and make sure all the numbers are correct.”
A friend might say, “You should check out this new restaurant, the food is amazing.”

5. Probe

To “probe” means to inquire or investigate into a particular subject or matter in a thorough and systematic way. It can be used to describe the act of asking questions or exploring deeply to uncover information.

For example, a journalist might say, “I’m going to probe the politician about their controversial statements.”
A scientist might say, “We need to probe further into this phenomenon to understand its underlying causes.”
A detective might say, “We need to probe the witness to get more information about the crime.”

6. Delve into

To delve into something means to investigate or explore it in depth. This term implies a thorough and detailed examination.

For example, a journalist might say, “I need to delve into this story to uncover the truth.”
A detective might say, “We need to delve into the suspect’s background to find any leads.”
A researcher might state, “I plan to delve into the data to find patterns and correlations.”

7. Hunt down

To hunt down means to actively search for and pursue someone or something with the intention of capturing or finding them.

For instance, a bounty hunter might say, “I will hunt down the fugitive and bring them to justice.”
A detective might say, “We need to hunt down the criminal before they can commit more crimes.”
A journalist might state, “I will hunt down the sources to get the full story.”

8. Go through

To go through means to carefully examine or investigate something. This term suggests a systematic and comprehensive review.

For example, a lawyer might say, “We need to go through all the evidence before presenting our case.”
A teacher might say, “Let’s go through the lesson again to ensure everyone understands.”
A researcher might state, “I will go through the documents to find the relevant information.”

9. Scrutinize

To scrutinize means to examine or inspect something closely and critically. This term implies a careful and detailed analysis.

For instance, a quality control inspector might say, “I need to scrutinize every product to ensure it meets the standards.”
A reviewer might say, “I will scrutinize the details of this book to provide an accurate critique.”
A scientist might state, “We need to scrutinize the data to identify any errors or anomalies.”

10. Follow up

To follow up means to continue or pursue an investigation or inquiry. This term suggests a need to gather additional information or clarify previous findings.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to follow up on the leads we have to solve the case.”
A journalist might say, “I will follow up with the sources to get more details for the story.”
A researcher might state, “I plan to follow up on this study with further experiments.”

11. Look over

To quickly examine or review something for any obvious issues or problems.

For example, “Before submitting the report, make sure to look it over for any spelling errors.”
A teacher might say, “Take a few minutes to look over your notes before the exam.”
In a crime scene investigation, a detective might say, “We need to look over the area for any potential evidence.”

12. Chase down

To actively pursue or follow up on something or someone in order to gather information or find a solution.

For instance, “I need to chase down that lead and see where it takes us.”
In a detective story, a character might say, “I’m going to chase down every lead until I find the truth.”
A journalist might say, “I’m going to chase down that source and get the exclusive story.”

13. Track down

To find or locate someone or something, often after a thorough search or investigation.

For example, “I need to track down the owner of this lost dog.”
A bounty hunter might say, “I’m going to track down the fugitive and bring them to justice.”
A genealogist might say, “I’ve been trying to track down my family history for years.”

14. Get to the bottom of

To investigate thoroughly in order to uncover the truth or find the underlying cause of a situation.

For instance, “We need to get to the bottom of these rumors and find out what’s really going on.”
A detective might say, “I won’t rest until I get to the bottom of this case.”
A scientist might say, “We need to get to the bottom of this mystery and find a solution.”

15. Unearth

To find or discover something that was previously hidden or unknown.

For example, “Archaeologists unearthed ancient artifacts at the excavation site.”
A journalist might say, “I’ve unearthed some new evidence that could change the course of the investigation.”
A researcher might say, “Through my studies, I hope to unearth new knowledge in this field.”

16. Research

To conduct a thorough investigation or study on a particular topic or subject. “Research” involves gathering information, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on the findings.

For example, a student might say, “I need to research the history of ancient Egypt for my history project.”
A scientist might explain, “We conducted extensive research to determine the effects of this new drug.”
A journalist might state, “I spent months researching this story to uncover the truth.”

17. Snoop around

To secretly or discreetly investigate or gather information about someone or something. “Snoop around” implies a level of curiosity or nosiness in uncovering details that may not be readily available.

For instance, a nosy neighbor might say, “I saw Jane snooping around our backyard yesterday.”
A detective might mention, “We need to snoop around the suspect’s house to find any evidence.”
A journalist investigating a scandal might admit, “I’ve been snooping around to find any leads.”

18. Pore over

To examine or study something in great detail. “Pore over” suggests a close and careful investigation, often involving intense concentration and attention to every detail.

For example, a student might say, “I need to pore over these textbooks to prepare for the exam.”
A researcher might mention, “I spent hours poring over the data to find any patterns.”
A lawyer might state, “We need to pore over the contract to ensure there are no hidden clauses.”

19. Follow up on

To continue investigating or pursuing a matter or issue that has been previously addressed. “Follow up on” implies taking further action to gather more information or ensure that a previous investigation is completed.

For instance, a detective might say, “I need to follow up on this lead to see where it leads.”
A journalist might mention, “I’m going to follow up on this story to get more details.”
A researcher might state, “I will follow up on this study by conducting further experiments.”

20. Scout out

To investigate or explore an area or location with the intention of gathering information or assessing its suitability for a particular purpose. “Scout out” often implies a preliminary investigation or reconnaissance.

For example, a real estate agent might say, “I’m going to scout out potential properties for our clients.”
A spy might mention, “I need to scout out the enemy’s headquarters to gather intelligence.”
A traveler might state, “I like to scout out the best local restaurants before visiting a new city.”

21. Uncover

To find or reveal something that was previously hidden or unknown. “Uncover” is often used to describe the act of revealing information or exposing the truth.

For example, a journalist might say, “I uncovered a scandal that had been kept secret for years.”
In a crime investigation, a detective might say, “We need to uncover the truth behind this mysterious disappearance.”
A researcher might state, “My goal is to uncover the underlying causes of this medical condition.”

22. Explore

To investigate or examine something thoroughly. “Explore” is often used to describe the act of seeking knowledge or understanding about a particular subject.

For instance, a scientist might say, “We need to explore the effects of this new drug on patients.”
In a historical research project, a student might state, “I want to explore the impact of World War II on the local community.”
A curious individual might ask, “I wonder if there are any books that explore the history of this topic.”

23. Inspect

To carefully examine or scrutinize something. “Inspect” is often used to describe the act of conducting a detailed examination or investigation.

For example, a mechanic might say, “I need to inspect your car to determine the cause of the problem.”
In a quality control process, an inspector might state, “I will inspect each product to ensure it meets the required standards.”
A detective might say, “We need to inspect the crime scene for any evidence that could help us solve the case.”

24. Examine

To closely observe or analyze something in order to understand it better. “Examine” is often used to describe the act of studying or investigating a particular subject.

For instance, a doctor might say, “I need to examine your symptoms in order to make a diagnosis.”
In an academic setting, a teacher might ask students to “examine the causes and effects of climate change.”
A researcher might state, “I plan to examine the relationship between diet and heart disease.”

25. Pursue

To actively seek or follow a course of action in order to achieve a particular goal. “Pursue” is often used to describe the act of actively investigating or researching a topic.

For example, a journalist might say, “I’m going to pursue this lead and see where it takes me.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might state, “We will pursue all available evidence to build a strong case.”
A student might say, “I plan to pursue a career in scientific research and investigate new discoveries.”

26. Analyze

To closely study or examine something in order to understand its components, patterns, or relationships.

For example, a detective might analyze a crime scene for evidence.
A researcher might analyze data to identify trends or patterns.
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “Let’s analyze the facts before jumping to conclusions.”

27. Suss out

To investigate or determine something through careful observation or deduction.

For instance, if you’re trying to find the best restaurant in town, you might suss out the reviews and recommendations.
In a mystery novel, the detective might suss out the identity of the killer.
A friend might ask, “Can you suss out why Sarah has been acting strange lately?”

28. Go down the rabbit hole

To investigate or delve into a subject or topic, often with the intention of discovering more information or uncovering hidden aspects.

For example, when researching a historical event, you might go down the rabbit hole of primary sources and archives.
A person might say, “I started watching one video on YouTube and ended up going down the rabbit hole of conspiracy theories.”
When discussing a complex issue, someone might suggest, “Let’s go down the rabbit hole and see what we can find.”

29. Follow the trail

To investigate or pursue a series of clues or evidence in order to uncover the truth or find a solution.

For instance, a detective might follow the trail of a suspect in a criminal investigation.
In a scavenger hunt, participants follow the trail of clues to find hidden objects.
A friend might say, “I heard there’s a new restaurant in town. Let’s follow the trail of positive reviews and check it out.”

30. Go undercover

To investigate or gather information by assuming a false identity or pretending to be someone else.

For example, an undercover police officer might go undercover to infiltrate a drug cartel.
In a spy movie, the protagonist might go undercover to gather intelligence on a secret organization.
A journalist might go undercover to expose corruption or unethical practices.

31. Get the lowdown

– For example, a detective might say, “I need to get the lowdown on the suspect’s alibi.”

In a news article, a journalist might write, “Let’s get the lowdown on the latest scandal.”
A friend might ask, “Hey, can you get the lowdown on that new restaurant before we go?”

32. Look under the hood

– For instance, a mechanic might say, “Let’s look under the hood to see what’s causing the strange noise.”

A computer technician might suggest, “If your computer is running slow, we should look under the hood for any software issues.”
A detective investigating a crime might say, “We need to look under the hood to find any clues or evidence.”

33. Turn over every stone

– For example, a journalist might say, “We turned over every stone to uncover the truth behind the scandal.”

A detective might say, “We need to turn over every stone to find any leads in the case.”
A researcher might explain, “To gather accurate data, we turned over every stone to ensure nothing was missed.”

34. Work the case

– For instance, a detective might say, “I’ve been working the case for months, trying to gather evidence.”

A journalist might say, “I’m working the case to uncover any corruption within the government.”
A lawyer might say, “I need more time to work the case and build a strong defense.”

35. Fish for information

– For example, a journalist might say, “During the interview, I subtly fished for information about the politician’s controversial past.”

A detective might say, “I’ll fish for information from the witnesses to see if anyone saw anything suspicious.”
A friend might ask, “Have you been fishing for information about that new coworker?”

36. Uncover the truth

This phrase means to find or reveal the truth about a particular situation or event.

For example, “The journalist worked tirelessly to uncover the truth behind the corruption scandal.”
A detective might say, “I won’t rest until I uncover the truth about this case.”
In a political investigation, someone might say, “We need to uncover the truth about these hidden campaign contributions.”

37. Get the scoop

This slang phrase means to obtain or gather exclusive or insider information about a particular topic or event.

For instance, “I have a friend who works in the industry and can get the scoop on the latest celebrity gossip.”
A journalist might say, “I need to get the scoop on this breaking news story before anyone else.”
In a conversation about a new product launch, someone might ask, “Do you have the scoop on the upcoming features?”

38. Get the inside track

This phrase means to obtain or gain access to exclusive or privileged information or knowledge about a particular subject.

For example, “He has connections in the industry that allow him to get the inside track on upcoming business deals.”
A sports fan might say, “I know someone on the team who can give me the inside track on their training strategies.”
In a discussion about a new technology, someone might ask, “Do you have the inside track on the upcoming release?”

39. Pry into

This phrase means to intrusively investigate or inquire about someone or something, often with the intention of uncovering private or confidential information.

For instance, “She always tries to pry into my personal life, asking intrusive questions.”
A nosy neighbor might say, “I can’t help but pry into their business when I see something suspicious.”
In a conversation about a celebrity’s personal life, someone might comment, “The media loves to pry into every aspect of their relationships.”

40. Get the dirt

This slang phrase means to obtain scandalous or incriminating information about someone or something.

For example, “The journalist managed to get the dirt on the politician’s secret dealings.”
A gossip columnist might say, “I’m always trying to get the dirt on the latest celebrity scandals.”
In a discussion about a controversial company, someone might ask, “Do you have any insider information to get the dirt on their unethical practices?”

41. Get to the bottom

This phrase means to uncover or discover the true or underlying cause or reason for something.

For example, “I need to get to the bottom of this mystery and find out who stole my lunch.”
In a news investigation, a reporter might say, “We’re determined to get to the bottom of this scandal and expose the truth.”
Someone might say, “I’m going to get to the bottom of why my computer keeps crashing.”

42. Get the facts

This phrase means to collect or obtain reliable and accurate information or evidence about a particular situation or topic.

For instance, “Before making a decision, it’s important to get the facts and not rely on rumors.”
In a debate or argument, someone might say, “Let’s stop speculating and get the facts straight.”
A journalist might say, “I’m going to interview multiple sources to get the facts for my article.”

43. Look behind the curtain

This phrase means to investigate or explore what is hidden or not immediately visible, often in order to uncover the truth or reveal the inner workings of a situation or organization.

For example, “We need to look behind the curtain and see what’s really going on in this company.”
In a political context, someone might say, “It’s time to look behind the curtain and expose the corruption.”
A detective might say, “To solve this case, we need to look behind the curtain and uncover the hidden motives.”

44. Investigate like a detective

This phrase means to conduct an investigation with the same level of thoroughness, attention to detail, and determination as a professional detective.

For instance, “We need to approach this problem like a detective and gather all the evidence.”
In a crime TV show, a character might say, “Let’s investigate like detectives and find the real culprit.”
A journalist might say, “To get to the truth, we need to investigate like a detective and follow every lead.”

45. Go on a fact-finding mission

This phrase means to actively and purposefully engage in an investigation or research in order to gather information or uncover the truth.

For example, “We’re going on a fact-finding mission to gather evidence for our report.”
In a legal context, someone might say, “The lawyer went on a fact-finding mission to gather evidence for the trial.”
A researcher might say, “I’m going on a fact-finding mission to gather data for my study.”

46. Spy on

To secretly observe or gather information about someone or something. “Spy on” is a slang term used to describe the act of conducting covert surveillance.

For example, a suspicious spouse might say, “I think my partner is cheating on me. I need to spy on them.”
In a detective novel, a character might say, “I’ll try to spy on the suspect and see if I can gather any evidence.”
A journalist investigating a story might say, “I need to spy on the company’s activities to uncover any wrongdoing.”

47. Case

To thoroughly examine a situation or person in order to gather evidence or information. “Case” is a slang term used to describe the act of investigating a particular matter.

For instance, a detective might say, “We need to case the area and gather clues.”
In a legal context, a lawyer might say, “We need to case the defendant’s background to build a strong defense.”
A journalist researching a story might say, “I’m going to case the company’s financial records to uncover any discrepancies.”

48. Scout

To carefully search or investigate an area or person for information or potential opportunities. “Scout” is a slang term used to describe the act of exploring or investigating.

For example, a talent scout might say, “I’m going to scout for new actors at the auditions.”
In a military context, a soldier might say, “I’ll scout the area ahead to gather intelligence.”
A journalist looking for a story might say, “I’m going to scout the neighborhood and talk to residents to get their perspective.”

49. Inquire into

To investigate or examine a matter in order to gather information or find out the truth. “Inquire into” is a slang term used to describe the act of investigating or looking into something.

For instance, a detective might say, “I need to inquire into the suspect’s alibi.”
In a corporate setting, a manager might say, “We need to inquire into the employee’s behavior to determine if there’s any misconduct.”
A journalist investigating a story might say, “I’m going to inquire into the company’s financial records to uncover any irregularities.”

50. Monitor

To observe or keep track of someone or something over a period of time. “Monitor” is a slang term used to describe the act of watching or observing.

For example, a parent might say, “I need to monitor my child’s internet usage to ensure their safety.”
In a security context, a guard might say, “I’ll monitor the surveillance cameras to detect any suspicious activity.”
A journalist covering a developing story might say, “I’ll monitor the situation and provide updates as new information becomes available.”

51. Track

To keep tabs on someone or something, often with the intention of gathering information or monitoring their activities.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to track the suspect’s movements to gather evidence.”
In a conversation about online privacy, someone might mention, “Websites often track your browsing history.”
A journalist investigating a story might say, “I’m tracking down leads to uncover the truth.”

52. Interrogate

To ask someone a series of questions, often in a thorough and intense manner, in order to obtain information or elicit a confession.

For instance, a police officer might interrogate a suspect to gather evidence for a case.
In a spy thriller, a character might be interrogated by enemy agents.
A journalist might interview a witness and interrogate their account to ensure accuracy.

53. Review

To carefully examine, analyze, or evaluate something in order to form an opinion or make a judgment.

For example, a teacher might review a student’s essay to provide feedback.
In a restaurant context, a food critic might review a new menu item.
A lawyer might review a case file to prepare for a trial.

54. Search

To look for something or someone, usually with the intention of finding or discovering.

For instance, a detective might search a crime scene for evidence.
In a treasure hunt, participants search for hidden clues or objects.
A person looking for a lost item might say, “I’ve searched everywhere, but I can’t find it.”

55. Study

To observe, investigate, or analyze something in a systematic and detailed manner in order to gain knowledge or understanding.

For example, a scientist might study the effects of a new drug on laboratory rats.
In an academic setting, students study various subjects to expand their knowledge.
A researcher might study historical documents to uncover new information.

56. Audit

To conduct a formal examination or review of financial records, systems, or processes to ensure accuracy, compliance, or efficiency.

For example, “The company hired an external auditor to audit its financial statements.”
A government agency might say, “We will audit your tax returns to ensure compliance with the law.”
In a discussion about corporate governance, someone might mention, “Regular audits can help identify potential fraud or errors in the financial reporting.”

57. Inquire

To ask for information or investigate a topic by posing a question or series of questions.

For instance, “I will inquire about the availability of the product at the store.”
A journalist might say, “I plan to inquire about the recent allegations during the press conference.”
In a customer service context, someone might ask, “Can I inquire about the status of my order?”

58. Verify

To check the accuracy, truth, or validity of something by conducting a thorough investigation or examination.

For example, “Please verify your email address by clicking on the confirmation link.”
A detective might say, “We need to verify the alibi of the suspect to determine their whereabouts.”
In a discussion about online security, someone might advise, “Always verify the authenticity of websites before entering personal information.”

59. Validate

To confirm or prove the accuracy, truth, or validity of something through investigation or evidence.

For instance, “The experiment was repeated to validate the initial findings.”
A software developer might say, “We need to validate the user’s input to prevent errors or malicious activity.”
In a discussion about research, someone might argue, “Peer review is important to validate the scientific rigor of a study.”

60. Question

To investigate or examine someone or something by asking a series of questions.

For example, “The detective questioned the suspect to gather more information about the crime.”
A journalist might say, “I plan to question the politician about their controversial statements.”
In a legal context, someone might ask, “Are you ready to question the witness during the trial?”

61. Assess

To evaluate or examine something or someone in order to determine its quality, value, or significance.

For example, a teacher might assess a student’s performance on a test.
In a business context, a company might assess the market demand for a new product.
A doctor might assess a patient’s symptoms to make a diagnosis.

62. Survey

To gather information or opinions from a group of people through a series of questions.

For instance, a company might survey its customers to gather feedback on their products or services.
A researcher might conduct a survey to collect data for a study.
A politician might conduct a survey to gauge public opinion on a particular issue.

63. Interview

To ask someone a series of questions in order to gather information or assess their suitability for a job or position.

For example, a journalist might interview a celebrity for a magazine article.
An employer might interview multiple candidates for a job opening.
A detective might interview witnesses to a crime in order to gather evidence.

64. Check up on

To keep an eye on or investigate someone or something to ensure they are behaving or functioning as expected.

For instance, a parent might check up on their child to make sure they are doing their homework.
A manager might check up on their employees to ensure they are meeting deadlines.
A suspicious partner might check up on their significant other to see if they are being faithful.