Translation guide
To examine or look into something in great detail, leaving no stone unturned. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for thorough investigation, from formal inquiries to casual checking.
The police investigated the case thoroughly.
Means 'to examine in detail'. Less formal than 徹底的に調査する, but still appropriate for many situations.
We need to investigate the cause in detail.
Specifically used for criminal investigations. 捜査 implies a search for evidence or suspects.
The authorities are thoroughly investigating the corruption.
To study a topic or phenomenon exhaustively, often in a scholarly context.
To look into something carefully on your own, such as a problem, a piece of information, or a suspicious situation.
A simple, common way to say 'check carefully' or 'look into it well'. Suitable for everyday use.
Please check thoroughly whether that information is correct.
Emphasizes doing a solid, reliable investigation. Slightly more emphatic than よく調べる.
Let's investigate that problem thoroughly.
Literally 'to check every corner'. Conveys a very thorough, exhaustive search.
I searched the room thoroughly (every nook and cranny).
To look into someone's history, actions, or character in detail.
調べる is the general verb for 'to check/investigate'. 調査する is more formal and implies a systematic inquiry. 研究する is used for academic research. For 'investigate thoroughly', you can combine any of these with adverbs like 徹底的に (thoroughly), 詳しく (in detail), or 綿密に (meticulously).
The English phrase 'investigate thoroughly' is often best expressed with an adverb + verb combination in Japanese. A direct translation like '調査を徹底する' is less natural than '徹底的に調査する'.
We conducted a thorough investigation of the market.
I investigated his background in detail.