probe
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for probe, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A formal investigation into a matter, often one involving wrongdoing.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
How to use probe
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin probare, "to test or examine" — a doublet of "prove."
Full origin of probe →Frequently asked questions
What does “probe” mean?
The word “probe” means a formal investigation into a matter, often one involving wrongdoing. In plain terms, to investigate closely — or a tool/instrument (physical or figurative) used to do that investigating.
How do you pronounce “probe”?
“Probe” is pronounced prohb (/pɹoʊb/ in IPA).
How do you use “probe” in a sentence?
Here is “probe” used in a sentence: “Authorities launched a probe into the company's accounting practices.”
What part of speech is “probe”?
Depending on how it is used, “probe” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “probe” come from?
The word “probe” comes from Latin. From Latin probare, "to test or examine" — a doublet of "prove.".
Is “probe” a common word?
“Probe” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “probe” have?
“Probe” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal investigation into a matter, often one involving wrongdoing.
What is the difference between a probe and an investigation?
A probe is a formal investigation, so the words largely overlap, but "probe" adds the suggestion of digging deep to uncover hidden information and typically concerns suspected wrongdoing. It is also the standard headline word in journalism because it is short, as in "Senate opens fraud probe."
What is the difference between a space probe and a satellite?
A space probe is an uncrewed spacecraft sent to gather information about a distant location, such as another planet — it may fly past, orbit, or land on its target. A satellite remains in orbit around a single body, most often Earth. In short, probes travel to a destination, while satellites circle one.
When should you use probe instead of investigate?
Use "probe" when you want to stress a close, searching examination aimed at uncovering something hidden: "the reporter probed the company's finances." "Investigate" is the neutral, all-purpose choice. Probe also suits physical exploration, echoing its sense of a slender instrument exploring a wound or cavity.
What is a probe in medicine?
In medicine, a probe is a slender instrument used to explore a wound or body cavity, allowing a clinician to examine areas that cannot be seen directly. The same idea carries over to engineering, where a probe is a slim tool or sensor used to explore or test equipment.