a thorough investigation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a thorough investigation' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an investigation that is conducted in a thorough and meticulous manner. For example: After receiving numerous complaints, the police began a thorough investigation to find out what had happened.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He promised a thorough investigation.

The New York Times

"We are running a thorough investigation.

The New York Times

We really do need a thorough investigation.

Independent

Let's have a thorough investigation.

The Guardian

"This is not a thorough investigation".

The New York Times

Grand jurors conduct a thorough investigation.

The Guardian

A thorough investigation is certainly in order.

The New York Times

It has called for a thorough investigation.

The Guardian

The NFL did a thorough investigation that spanned several months".

The New York Times

This is a troubling pattern and begs a thorough investigation".

The New York Times

"A thorough investigation is under way," she added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a thorough investigation" when you want to emphasize the detailed and comprehensive nature of the investigative process.

Common error

Avoid using "a thorough investigation" if the process is only preliminary or superficial. It is better to use terms like "initial assessment" or "preliminary review" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thorough investigation" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb or following a preposition. Ludwig, like the examples provided demonstrate its usage in contexts where careful examination is needed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

17%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a thorough investigation" is a commonly used noun phrase that denotes a detailed and comprehensive examination. Ludwig AI correctly identifies it as grammatically sound and applicable across various contexts, especially in news and media and scientific domains. For alternatives, consider "a comprehensive inquiry" or "an exhaustive probe". When using the phrase, ensure the context justifies the implication of a deep and meticulous examination, and avoid overstating the depth if the process is only preliminary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A comprehensive inquiry

Replaces "investigation" with "inquiry", emphasizing a formal and wide-ranging examination.

An exhaustive probe

Substitutes "investigation" with "probe", suggesting a deep and detailed search for information.

A detailed examination

Emphasizes the level of detail involved in the investigation.

A meticulous inquiry

Highlights the care and precision taken during the inquiry.

A full and complete inquiry

Adds emphasis on the completeness of the investigation or inquiry.

A rigorous analysis

Focuses on the strictness and accuracy of the analytical process.

An in-depth study

Implies a deep and comprehensive analysis of the subject matter.

An extensive review

Suggests a broad and wide-ranging overview and assessment.

A forensic audit

Specifies a detailed and systematic examination, often in a legal or financial context.

A root cause analysis

Implies an analysis specifically aimed at identifying the fundamental reasons for a problem or event.

FAQs

What does "a thorough investigation" imply?

It implies a detailed, comprehensive, and meticulous examination of facts to uncover the truth or understand a situation fully. It's not just a cursory look, but a deep dive into all relevant aspects.

How can I use "a thorough investigation" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe any situation where a detailed examination is required, such as "The company promised "a thorough investigation" into the data breach" or "The police are conducting "a thorough investigation" into the incident".

What are some alternatives to "a thorough investigation"?

Alternatives include "a comprehensive inquiry", "an exhaustive probe", or "a detailed examination", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to call for "a thorough investigation"?

It's appropriate when there is a need for a detailed and impartial examination of facts, especially in situations involving misconduct, negligence, or when seeking to understand complex issues with potentially significant consequences.