investigation crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling 'investigation crossword clue' and need a little help, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to guide you to the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "investigation crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PROBE: A thorough inquiry or examination into something.
AUDIT: An official inspection of an organization's accounts, typically by an independent body.
6 Letters
SEARCH: An act of looking carefully for something or someone.
7 Letters
INQUIRY: An official investigation.
EXAMINE: To inspect carefully and in detail.
ENQUIRY: Another common spelling of 'inquiry', particularly in British English.
VETTING: The process of making a careful and critical examination of something or someone.
8 Letters
RESEARCH: Systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.
ANALYSIS: Detailed examination of the elements or structure of something, typically as a basis for discussion or interpretation.
9 Letters
FORENSICS: Scientific tests or techniques used in connection with the detection of crime.
More About "investigation crossword clue"
The term "investigation" is a frequent visitor in crossword puzzles, often challenging solvers to think beyond its most common definitions. Clues might refer to a criminal inquiry, a scientific study, a personal quest, or even an internal review. The beauty of crosswords lies in their ability to draw upon a wide range of synonyms and related concepts, meaning a simple "investigation" clue could lead to answers as diverse as PROBE, RESEARCH, or AUDIT depending on the context of the puzzle.
Crossword setters love to play with words, and "investigation" can be clued literally or more obliquely, hinting at the act of looking into something deeply. Pay close attention to the number of letters required for the answer, as this is often your strongest hint. Also, consider the specific publication or style of the crossword; some lean towards more formal terms, while others might use more colloquial or niche synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always consider the surrounding clues. Does it hint at a scientific investigation, a detective's work, a legal process, or a general inquiry? This will narrow down the field of synonyms significantly.
- Look at Letter Count First: Use the provided letter count to eliminate possibilities quickly. Our site provides answers categorized by length, making this step easier.
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: "Investigation" has many direct synonyms (probe, study, research, inquiry). Also, if the clue is tricky or indirect, consider what an investigation is NOT (e.g., speculation, guesswork, neglect).
- Consider Field-Specific Terms: Crosswords often feature terms specific to a field. For "investigation," think legal (e.g., TRIAL), scientific (e.g., ANALYSIS), or financial (e.g., AUDIT) contexts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach a 'research' or 'investigation' clue?
Start by considering the most common synonyms like PROBE, INQUIRY, or STUDY. Then, look at the number of letters required and any cross-referenced letters you might already have. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type of investigation, such as a criminal 'CASE' or an academic 'THESIS'.
Why do some clues have multiple answers for the same letter count?
Crossword puzzles are designed to be challenging, and many words have multiple synonyms or related terms that could fit a given clue. The correct answer often depends on the specific context of the puzzle, including other intersecting words you've already filled in. Always use the intersecting letters to confirm your choice.
How can I improve my vocabulary for 'investigation' related clues?
Reading widely, using a thesaurus, and actively solving more crosswords will naturally expand your vocabulary. Pay attention to common crossword "tropes" for words like "investigation," which often relate to legal, scientific, or journalistic contexts. Making flashcards of common crossword answers and their synonyms can also be very effective.