Delving into details: "investigation" vs. "research"

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 09/10/2024, 04:18

English.me team member

Investigation and research. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "investigation" and "research" involve a systematic process of inquiry and examination to discover facts or gain information.

What is different?

An "investigation" is usually a formal inquiry into a specific event, situation, or crime, often aimed at finding evidence or answering specific questions. It implies a narrower focus and is often associated with legal or official contexts. "Research", on the other hand, is a broader term that refers to the systematic study of a topic or phenomenon to establish facts, reach new conclusions, or develop theories. It is often used in academic or scientific contexts and implies a more general pursuit of knowledge.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Investigation

The police launched an investigation into the robbery that occurred last night.
The internal investigation revealed discrepancies in the financial reports.
The journalist conducted an investigation to uncover the truth behind the company's practices.

Research

She is conducting research on climate change impacts on marine life.
The study was based on extensive research in the field of neuroscience.
His research into ancient civilizations provided new insights into their cultures.