investigate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "investigate" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and moving forward with your puzzle.
Solutions for "investigate crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
DIG: To dig into a subject, metaphorically, is to investigate it thoroughly.
5 Letters
PROBE: To officially inquire into or examine a subject, often implying a detailed search or inquiry.
7 Letters
EXAMINE: To inspect or scrutinize something carefully, often to determine its nature or condition.
INSPECT: To look at someone or something carefully in order to discover something, especially faults or problems.
8 Letters
RESEARCH: To study a subject in detail, especially in order to discover new information or reach a new understanding.
More About "investigate crossword clue"
The clue "investigate" is a common one in crosswords, often requiring a synonym that fits the given letter count. These words typically revolve around the themes of inquiry, examination, and discovery. Crossword setters love to use verbs that describe a process of looking deeply into something, whether it's a crime, a scientific phenomenon, or a historical event.
When you encounter "investigate," consider the nuance of the synonyms. For example, "DIG" might imply a more informal or persistent search, while "PROBE" suggests a formal or methodical inquiry. "EXAMINE" is a broad term for careful inspection, and "RESEARCH" points to a more academic or fact-finding process. The key to solving these clues lies in matching the precise shade of meaning to the context implied by other words in the puzzle or the puzzle's theme.
Always keep in mind that crosswords can be tricky, and a single clue might have multiple plausible answers depending on the setter's intent. Using the crossing letters from other answers is crucial to narrowing down the possibilities and confidently arriving at the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Pay attention to other words in the clue or the puzzle's theme. Is it a scientific puzzle? A legal one? This can hint at the specific type of "investigate" being sought.
- Consider All Synonyms: Don't stop at the first synonym that comes to mind. Brainstorm a list of words related to "investigate" and then check which ones fit the available letter count.
- Check Wordplay: Sometimes "investigate" might be part of a wordplay clue. For instance, "Investigate, say" could lead to a homophone or a pun. Always be open to clever twists.
- Use Crossing Letters: This is the golden rule of crosswords. Even if you're stuck on "investigate," solving other clues that cross its answer will reveal letters, making the solution much clearer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "investigate" typically mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, "investigate" often points to verbs related to looking into, examining, or delving deeply into a subject. Common answers include synonyms like PROBE, EXAMINE, DIG, or RESEARCH. The specific answer will depend on the letter count and other crossing letters in the puzzle.
How can I find the correct length for "investigate" answers?
The most reliable way is to use the existing letters in the crossword grid. If you have a few letters already filled in, they will help narrow down the possible answers. If not, consider common word lengths for this type of verb (e.g., 3-8 letters) and think of synonyms that fit. Consulting a clue database like ours is also a great strategy!
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for "investigate" clues?
While "investigate" itself is usually a direct clue, you might find variations like "Investigate, with 'into'" (leading to answers like LOOKINTO, which sometimes becomes one word in puzzles) or clues that imply the *result* of investigation, such as SOLVE or DETERMINE. Always consider the precise phrasing and any accompanying words in the clue.