means of investigation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "means of investigation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to methods or tools employed to conduct research or gather information. Example: "The researchers employed various means of investigation to gather data on the effects of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The Bush administration is tampering with every legitimate means of investigation.

The Guardian - Opinion

Also in this study, qualitative means of investigation were employed.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

The third source involved physical means of investigation to study the chemical composition of the coatings.

Heritage Science

Full scale experiments using a prototype extruder were chosen as the means of investigation.

Journal of Materials Processing Technology

With such strongly coupled effects, the path-dependency nature of cryopreservation processes calls for special means of investigation.

Cryobiology

A prospective and observational study was implemented, by means of investigation of administrative records of patients undergoing a lumbar arthrodesis surgical procedure.

Health Economics Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

This may be particularly an issue with patients who sustain more severe brain injuries as they are more subject to various means of investigations such as MRI or operation.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

It means years of investigation and litigation for JPMorgan to home — and a bit of a rabbit hunt for American regulators if they venture abroad in pursuit of the traders.

The New York Times

In particular, two modern limestone monuments in Rome, the 'Vittoriano' (by G. Sacconi, 1885-1911, Pianda Venezia) and the basement of the 'Statua dello Studente' (by A. Cataldi, 1920, University city, La Sapienza) were studied using XPS (X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy) as an analytical mean of investigations.

Chemistry Central Journal

In the West, for centuries, trial by combat and trial by ordeal — trial by fire, say, or trial by water — served both as means of criminal investigation and as forms of judicial proof.

The New Yorker

Geophysical techniques, spectral induced polarization (SIP) in particular, may provide a means of such investigation.

Journal of Contaminant Hydrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "means of investigation", ensure that the context clearly specifies the particular methods or tools being employed for the inquiry. Be precise in describing these means to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "means of investigation" as a vague substitute for more specific terms like "experiments", "surveys", or "data analysis". Providing concrete details enhances clarity and strengthens your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "means of investigation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig shows that it refers to the tools, methods, or resources used to conduct an inquiry or examination, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

65%

News & Media

23%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "means of investigation" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that refers to the methods and tools used in conducting inquiries. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate for formal contexts such as science, news, and professional settings. While versatile, it's crucial to be specific about the actual methods employed rather than using it as a vague placeholder. Alternatives like "methods of inquiry" or "investigative techniques" can offer nuanced variations depending on the context. With its strong presence in academic and news sources, mastering "means of investigation" can enhance the precision and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

methods of inquiry

This alternative focuses on the systematic procedures used for asking questions and gathering information, emphasizing a structured approach.

modes of inquiry

This alternative highlights different ways or manners in which an investigation can be conducted.

investigative techniques

This alternative refers to specific technical skills or methods employed during an investigation.

research methodologies

This emphasizes the overall strategic approach and design used in conducting research.

avenues of exploration

This alternative implies different paths or directions one might take while investigating a topic.

tools for inquiry

This emphasizes the specific instruments or aids used in the process of investigation.

strategies for examination

This focuses on the planned series of actions designed to scrutinize or inspect something carefully.

approaches to research

This suggests various ways or methods to conduct systematic investigation or study to establish facts.

methods of probing

This highlights the techniques used to delve deeply or inquire thoroughly into a subject.

techniques for studying

This refers to particular ways of examining or analyzing a subject to understand it better.

FAQs

How can I use "means of investigation" in a sentence?

You can use "means of investigation" to refer to the methods or tools used to conduct research or gather information. For example: "The police employed various "means of investigation" to solve the crime."

What are some alternatives to "means of investigation"?

Some alternatives include "methods of inquiry", "investigative techniques", and "research methodologies" depending on the context.

Is "means of investigation" formal or informal language?

"Means of investigation" is generally considered neutral to formal language, suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. More informal contexts might benefit from simpler phrasing.

Which is correct: "means of investigation" or "methods of investigation"?

Both "means of investigation" and "methods of investigation" are correct and usable. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey; "means" emphasizes the tools or resources, while "methods" emphasizes the systematic procedures.