thread of investigation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thread of investigation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a line of inquiry or a specific focus within a broader investigation. Example: "The detective followed the thread of investigation that led to new evidence in the case."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The 'knock down' would have no effect, the gene would be deemed nonessential to development, and a promising thread of investigation might be lost.

Genesis

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Jules Kroll had long since left individual case management to others, although he still met with clients and liked to "feel the threads" of investigations in progress.

The New Yorker

The role of placement agents has been one of the central threads of the investigation.

The New York Times

Although the document is the first look at the ways the threads of the investigation are plaited, board members have discussed virtually all the topics in the outline at hearings, briefings or in Congressional testimony, the board official said.

The New York Times

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Vice

And in the thread of the story dealing with the Scotland Yard investigation, more than 80 percent of the attributions were anonymous.

The New York Times

He said an investigation was warranted because the trustee's office had demonstrated "a common thread of potential wrongdoing" in several bankruptcy filings involving Countrywide.

The New York Times

He lost the thread of his argument.

The New Yorker

The thread of discussion constantly twists.

The New York Times

15 1 A THREAD OF GRACE, by Mary Doria Russell.

The New York Times

What's the thread of continuity?

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "thread of investigation", ensure it clearly connects to a specific aspect or element of a broader inquiry. For example, specify what makes it a distinct "thread", such as a particular piece of evidence or a specific line of questioning.

Common error

Avoid using "thread of investigation" when a simpler term like "investigation" or "inquiry" suffices. The phrase is most effective when highlighting a specific, interconnected element within a larger investigative process, not just the general act of investigating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thread of investigation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific line or aspect of inquiry within a broader investigation. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thread of investigation" is a grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to a specific line or aspect of inquiry within a broader investigation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable. While relatively rare, its usage is appropriate in both scientific and news contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to ensure it clearly connects to a specific element of the larger inquiry. Alternatives like "line of inquiry" or "strand of inquiry" can be used to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

line of inquiry

This alternative is more direct and emphasizes the path or direction of the investigation.

avenue of investigation

This phrase suggests a potential route or direction that the investigation can take.

area of investigation

Focuses on the specific subject matter being investigated.

strand of inquiry

This suggests one particular element or component of the investigation.

course of investigation

Emphasizes the progression and development of the investigation over time.

focus of investigation

Highlights the central point or main subject being investigated.

subject of inquiry

This alternative stresses the topic or matter being investigated.

theme of investigation

Highlights a recurring or underlying idea that the investigation explores.

angle of investigation

This suggests a specific perspective or point of view from which the investigation is conducted.

aspect of investigation

Focuses on a specific facet or element within the broader investigation.

FAQs

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

You can use "thread of investigation" to refer to a specific aspect or element of a broader inquiry. For example: "The detective followed the "thread of investigation" that led to new evidence in the case."

What's a good alternative to "thread of investigation"?

Alternatives to "thread of investigation" include "line of inquiry", "avenue of investigation", or "strand of inquiry", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "thread of investigation" formal or informal?

"Thread of investigation" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, such as news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and tone than the phrase itself.

When is it most appropriate to use "thread of investigation" instead of "investigation"?

Use "thread of investigation" when you want to emphasize a specific, interconnected element within a larger investigative process. If you're simply referring to the general act of investigating, "investigation" is sufficient.