probe into

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "probe into" is correct and is used in written English.
You might use it when you are investigating or inquiring into something in a careful or detailed way. For example, "The police conducted a probe into the disappearance of the woman."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

FBI Opens Probe Into Delphi Accounting.

Forbes

EU Backs Probe Into Rise Of Textile Imports.

Forbes

We'll probe into this further.

The Guardian

US congressional investigators launch probe into accelerator problems.

The Guardian - Business

The European Commission's probe into F1 has been salutary.

The Economist

A new tax probe into Sibneft was also revealed.

The Economist

Florence prosecutors have opened a murder probe into her death.

Independent

Sri Lanka's new government has promised a domestic probe into alleged war crimes under Rajapaksa.

The Guardian

(I look forward to his probe into the promise to, say, close Guantánamo).

The Guardian - Opinion

But the incident sparked a sudden and massive FBI probe into the Dukas and their friends.

The Guardian

Toward the end of the summer of 1991, the brothers halted their probe into pi.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "probe into" when you want to emphasize a thorough and detailed investigation, especially one aimed at uncovering hidden or complex information.

Common error

While "probe into" is versatile, it can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "look into" or "check out" when speaking with friends or family.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "probe into" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically a verb followed by a preposition. It describes the action of conducting a thorough and detailed investigation or inquiry. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use across various domains, emphasizing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Huffington Post

3%

The New Yorker

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "probe into" is a phrasal verb that signifies a thorough and detailed investigation, often with the intent to uncover hidden information. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It's most frequently encountered in news and media, followed by science and formal business contexts, indicating a relatively formal register. When opting for alternatives, consider "investigate", "look into", or "delve into" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

investigate

Focuses on systematic inquiry and examination, often with the aim of uncovering facts or truth. Less idiomatic than "probe into".

look into

Suggests a more casual or preliminary investigation, implying a less rigorous approach than "probe into".

delve into

Implies a deep and thorough exploration of a subject, often suggesting a more academic or intellectual context. Slightly more formal.

examine

Highlights a careful and detailed inspection, often in a formal or scientific setting. Less focused on uncovering hidden information.

inquire into

Suggests a formal questioning or seeking of information, emphasizing the act of asking or requesting details.

scrutinize

Implies a critical and detailed examination, often with the aim of identifying flaws or errors. Carries a more judgmental tone.

explore

Focuses on discovering or learning about something, often suggesting a broader and less focused investigation.

research

Implies a systematic and scholarly investigation, typically involving the collection and analysis of data. More formal and structured.

analyze

Highlights the process of breaking down a subject into its component parts for detailed examination and understanding. Less about uncovering wrongdoing.

audit

Suggests a formal and systematic review, often of financial records or processes, to ensure compliance and accuracy. More specific in scope.

FAQs

How can I use "probe into" in a sentence?

You can use "probe into" to describe a thorough investigation. For example, "The investigators will "probe into" the cause of the accident".

What are some alternatives to "probe into"?

Alternatives include "investigate", "look into", "delve into", and "examine", depending on the specific context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "probe into" instead of "look into"?

"Probe into" suggests a more in-depth and serious investigation than "look into". Use "probe into" when the situation requires a thorough and detailed inquiry.

What is the difference between "probe into" and "investigate"?

"Investigate" is a more general term for conducting an inquiry. "Probe into" implies a more focused and intensive examination, often to uncover hidden or complex aspects. It has a similar meaning of "delve into".