launched a probe

USAGE SUMMARY

"launched a probe" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe the act of initiating an investigation or inquiry into a specific topic or situation. Example: The government has launched a probe into the recent stock market crash to determine the cause of the sudden decline.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Singapore, a regional financial hub, launched a probe into fund flows linked to 1MDB in 2015.

The Guardian

China has launched a probe into diesel emissions from Volkswagen cars.

Independent

They launched a probe, but wound it down without disciplining anyone.

The Economist

The Manhattan District Attorney's Office said it has launched a probe into the alleged abuse.

The Washington Post

Several weeks ago Milan prosecutors launched a probe into allegations that BPI had violated securities laws.

The Economist

The FBI has also launched a probe, the Wall Street Journal has reported.

Independent

The UK has launched a probe but there is not yet a recall in Europe.

Independent

After the shooting, the agency launched a probe into whether residents' civil rights are being violated.

The Washington Post

If that happens, what will replace it?" In August, the Senate launched a probe into the killings.

The New Yorker

The FBI launched a probe into the journalist's disappearance, but investigators have not made any findings public.

Independent

Two years on, the outgoing commission vice-president Joaquín Almunia revealed he had launched a probe into exactly the matter Barclay had raised.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "launched a probe", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being investigated. Providing specific details about the subject of the probe enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using passive voice constructions that obscure who is initiating the probe. For example, instead of "A probe was launched", specify who launched it: "The authorities launched a probe".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launched a probe" functions as a verb phrase indicating the initiation of a formal investigation or inquiry. Ludwig AI affirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used, aligning with examples where various entities (e.g. government, organizations) initiate investigations into specific issues.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "launched a probe" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the start of an investigation. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples from authoritative news sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the subject of the probe and avoiding overuse of passive voice. Consider alternatives like "initiated an investigation" or "started an inquiry" for variety. Its primary function is to inform about the commencement of an inquiry, often in neutral to professional registers. Remember that the phrase most frequently appears in news and media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiated an investigation

Focuses on the formal commencement of an inquiry, emphasizing the official start.

started an inquiry

Highlights the beginning of a fact-finding process, with a slightly less formal tone.

commenced an inquiry

Emphasizes the formal start of an investigation, similar to 'initiated'.

began an examination

Indicates the start of a detailed inspection or review.

undertook an investigation

Highlights the act of taking on or committing to an investigative process.

set up an investigation

Focuses on the establishment and organization of an investigative body or process.

opened an inquiry

Emphasizes the formal commencement of an inquiry, suggesting making it publicly accessible.

instigated a review

Highlights the act of initiating or provoking a review process.

established a committee of inquiry

Focuses on the creation of a dedicated committee to conduct the investigation.

formed a commission to investigate

Emphasizes the establishment of a formal commission with investigative powers.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "launched a probe"?

To say someone "launched a probe" means they have initiated an investigation or inquiry into a particular matter. It implies a formal commencement of the investigative process.

What can I say instead of "launched a probe"?

You can use alternatives like "initiated an investigation", "started an inquiry", or "commenced an inquiry" depending on the context.

How is "launched a probe" different from "conducted a study"?

"Launched a probe" typically implies an investigation into suspected wrongdoing or a specific issue, whereas "conducted a study" refers to a systematic research effort to gather and analyze information on a particular topic.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "launched a probe"?

The phrase "launched a probe" is appropriate in contexts involving formal investigations by authorities, regulatory bodies, or organizations seeking to uncover facts or address concerns about specific events or practices.