Words / C1

PROHB/prəʊb/

To probe is to investigate closely: probe the accounts, a police probe (noun). Investigate and examine (already in the dictionary) are cousins; a probe can also be a physical instrument. Do not brief the press office before you have probed the missing n.

Meaning

To investigate something closely; also (noun) a device that examines.

Examples

• “Probe the missing n before you brief the press office.”
• “Investigate is the everyday formal twin. Scrutinise (already in the dictionary) is close. A probe (noun) is an inquiry or a device. Poke is informal and physical. A press holding line is not a finding.”

Good to know

Investigate in depth. Close: investigate / scrutinise (already in the dictionary). Noun: an inquiry or a device. Briefing ≠ probing.

Near in meaning

investigate

New