Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
this study investigated
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "this study investigated" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would typically use it in the context of describing findings from an academic study, or to introduce a topic that has been the topic of research or investigation. For example: "This study investigated the effectiveness of online learning for students enrolled in college classes."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
Academia
Alternative expressions(18)
this research explored
we conducted an investigation into
the aim of this study was to determine
the study focused on
this study explored
this study analyzed
this study survey
this study examine
this study surveys
this study examining
this study probed
this study probe
this study investigate
this study sought to determine
this study aimed to
this study aimed to determine
this study aimed to investigate
this study investigates
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
This study investigated the impact of sitagliptin therapy on reducing acute IR kidney injury.
Science & Research
This study investigated the role of DHA in triggering pyroptosis activation in breast cancer cells.
Science & Research
This study investigated the adhesion properties of chondrocytes during cell spreading process.
Science & Research
This study investigated this possibility for bias.
This study investigated whether contralateral noise interferes with this step of central auditory processing.
Academia
This study investigated the association between 12-month statin trajectories and subsequent cardiovascular events.
Academia
Thus, this study investigated the therapeutic capacity of exosome-mimetic NVs from primary hepatocytes in liver regeneration.
Science & Research
This study investigated teacher's views regarding lifelong learning.
This study investigated whether PON1 gene polymorphisms associate with AMD.
This study investigated this problem and a possible solution.
This study investigated whether ficolin concentrations are associated with NEC.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "this study investigated", ensure that the study's objectives and methods are clearly outlined in the subsequent sentences to provide context for the reader.
Common error
Avoid immediately following "this study investigated" with broad statements. Instead, provide specific details about the research questions and methodology.
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "this study investigated" functions as a declarative statement introducing the purpose or focus of a research paper or academic report. It signals that the document will present an examination or exploration of a particular topic. As Ludwig AI explains, this is a common and perfectly usable phrase.
Frequent in
Science
63%
Academia
35%
News & Media
1%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "this study investigated" is a grammatically correct and frequently used construction, particularly within academic and scientific writing. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in such contexts. Its primary function is to introduce the central focus or research question of a study. While less common in informal settings, its prevalence in authoritative sources such as Nature, Harvard University and Duke University underscores its formal register. For alternative phrasing, options like "this research explored" or "the study focused on" can be considered depending on the desired nuance.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
this research explored
Replaces "study" with "research" and "investigated" with "explored", slightly broadening the scope.
this analysis examined
Substitutes "study" with "analysis" and "investigated" with "examined", suggesting a more detailed inspection.
the researchers analyzed
Shifts the focus to the researchers and uses "analyzed" instead of "investigated".
the study focused on
Replaces "investigated" with "focused on", narrowing the scope to a specific area.
this work assessed
Uses "work" instead of "study" and "assessed" instead of "investigated", implying an evaluation of the subject.
we conducted an investigation into
A more formal and verbose alternative, emphasizing the process of investigation.
the aim of this study was to determine
Explicitly states the aim, replacing "investigated" with "was to determine".
the purpose of this research was to explore
Similar to the previous one, but uses "research" and "explore" for a broader feel.
an inquiry was conducted to examine
A more formal and less common construction, using "inquiry" and "examine".
this project delved into
Replaces "study" with "project" and "investigated" with "delved into", suggesting a deeper, more immersive exploration.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "this study investigated" to sound more formal?
For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "this research explored", "we conducted an investigation into", or "the aim of this study was to determine".
What are some alternatives to "this study investigated" that are less formal?
Less formal alternatives include phrases such as "the study focused on" or "this project delved into", depending on the specific context.
Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "this study investigated"?
Yes, it is grammatically correct. Starting a sentence with "this study investigated" is a common and accepted practice, especially in academic and scientific writing.
How does "this study investigated" differ from "this study assessed"?
"This study investigated" implies an exploration or examination of a topic, while "this study assessed" suggests an evaluation or judgment. The choice depends on whether the study aimed to explore or to evaluate a particular subject.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
88%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested