under investigation

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where a study or inquiry is being conducted in order to determine facts or information. For example: The criminal case is still under investigation by the police.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Repeat, not under investigation!

The New York Times

The cause under investigation.

The New York Times

That case is under investigation.

The New York Times

The shootings remain under investigation.

The New York Times

The shooting is under investigation.

The New York Times

The crash remains under investigation.

The New York Times

He is also under investigation.

Independent

The accident is under investigation.

The New York Times

The incidents remain under investigation.

The New York Times

The motive remains under investigation.

The New York Times

The case is under investigation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in journalism, it's best to avoid conjecture or speculation until the official investigation is complete.

Common error

Avoid using "under investigation" for casual or informal inquiries. This phrase carries a serious tone and is best reserved for official matters. Use phrases like "looking into" or "checking out" for informal contexts.

How to use

Learn how to use "under investigation" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under investigation" functions as a predicate adjective, describing the state or condition of a noun (person, entity, event) that is the subject of an inquiry. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used in formal contexts to indicate that an official examination is in progress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under investigation" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that a subject is currently being examined through a formal inquiry. According to Ludwig AI, its primary use is in the news and media, where it conveys a neutral but serious tone. When using this phrase, it's important to reserve it for formal contexts, avoiding its application in casual conversation. Related phrases such as "being probed" or "subject to inquiry" can provide nuanced alternatives. Remember that "under investigation" suggests a potentially adversarial process, distinguishing it from the more general term "under review".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

currently being investigated

Indicates a present ongoing investigation.

in the process of being investigated

Adds emphasis on the process and action of investigating.

being probed

Replaces "investigation" with "probing", implying a detailed examination.

subject of a probe

Similar to "being probed" but with a slightly different structure.

subject to inquiry

Uses "inquiry" to indicate a formal investigation.

being scrutinized

Emphasizes close examination and potential fault-finding.

being examined

A more general term for investigation, implying a careful inspection.

subject to examination

Formal version of something that's being examined.

under review

Suggests a more general examination or assessment.

being looked into

An informal way of saying something is being investigated.

FAQs

How is "under investigation" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "under investigation" is generally used to describe a person, entity, or situation that is the subject of a formal inquiry. For example, "The company is "under investigation" for alleged fraud."

What are some alternative phrases for "under investigation"?

You can use alternatives like "being probed", "subject to inquiry", or "being scrutinized" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "under investigation" and "under review"?

"Under investigation" typically implies a more formal and potentially adversarial process, often involving legal or regulatory bodies. "Under review" suggests a more general assessment or evaluation.

When is it appropriate to use "under investigation" in journalistic writing?

It's appropriate to use "under investigation" when reporting on a formal inquiry that has been officially announced or confirmed by relevant authorities. Ensure accuracy and avoid speculation until the investigation concludes.