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Sleuthing: meaning, definitions and examples

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sleuthing

 

[ˈsluːθɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

investigation

The act of detecting or discovering something, typically through thorough investigation or surveillance.

Synonyms

detection, investigation, surveillance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sleuthing

Typically used in informal or creative writing when referring to the act of solving mysteries or uncovering secrets, often by an amateur detective or in a playful manner.

  • She's always sleuthing around, trying to find out everyone's secrets.
  • They spent the afternoon sleuthing through old documents to uncover the town's history.
investigation

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly relating to the process of examining facts to uncover the truth in legal, criminal, or journalistic settings.

  • The police launched an investigation into the robbery.
  • The journalist's investigation uncovered widespread corruption.
detection

Generally used in more formal contexts, particularly in scientific, technological, or security-related fields, to refer to the act of discovering or identifying something.

  • Early detection of the disease can save lives.
  • The new sensors have improved our detection of dangerous chemicals.
surveillance

Often used in contexts related to security and law enforcement, where it refers to monitoring activities, usually for the purpose of gathering information or preventing illegal activities.

  • The store increased its surveillance after a series of thefts.
  • They were under constant surveillance by the authorities.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoys sleuthing around to uncover hidden secrets.
  • The detective spent hours sleuthing for clues at the crime scene.
Context #2 | Noun

mystery solving

The act of solving mysteries or crimes as a detective or investigator.

Synonyms

detective work, investigation, mystery solving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sleuthing

Informal setting, often used when talking about amateur investigators or hobbyists looking into something with curiosity and enthusiasm.

  • She spent the weekend sleuthing around the old library archives
  • My friend enjoys sleuthing online to uncover her family history
detective work

Professional or semi-professional setting, appropriate when referring to methods and efforts by professionals such as police detectives or private investigators.

  • The detective work on the case took months of meticulous research
  • His keen sense for detective work made him the best in the department
investigation

Formal and neutral setting, suitable for both professional and general use when referring to a comprehensive, detailed examination of an event, crime, or situation.

  • The company launched an investigation into the financial irregularities
  • The police were conducting an investigation into the disappearance
mystery solving

Casual or narrative setting, often used in stories, books, or informal speech, focusing on the aspect of uncovering the unknown or solving puzzles.

  • They enjoyed mystery solving as a fun weekend activity
  • Her talent for mystery solving made her a famous author of detective novels

Examples of usage

  • Her passion for sleuthing led her to become a private investigator.
  • The group of friends enjoyed sleuthing together to solve the puzzling case.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'sleuth' comes from the Old Norse word 'slooth' meaning 'to track or trail.'
  • Originally, 'sleuth' referred to 'a track or trail,' relating to how detectives follow clues like footprints.

Pop Culture

  • Sleuthing became popular in detective novels in the late 19th century, with famous characters like Sherlock Holmes leading the way.
  • Movies and TV shows like 'Scooby-Doo' and 'Nancy Drew' have made sleuthing fun for children, encouraging them to look for clues.

Psychology

  • The act of sleuthing engages various cognitive abilities, such as critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Detectives use psychological profiling to sleuth effectively, analyzing behavior patterns to solve cases.

Literature

  • Many detective stories emphasize intuition and observation, showcasing the art of sleuthing as a blend of logic and creativity.
  • Classic literature, like Agatha Christie’s works, often revolves around characters who display exceptional sleuthing skills.

History

  • The profession of sleuthing became more formalized in the 19th century with the establishment of private detective agencies.
  • Famous sleuths in history, like Allan Pinkerton, helped shape modern investigative methods and procedures.

Translations

Translations of the word "sleuthing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 investigação

🇮🇳 जासूसी

🇩🇪 Ermittlung

🇮🇩 penyelidikan

🇺🇦 розслідування

🇵🇱 śledztwo

🇯🇵 捜査

🇫🇷 enquête

🇪🇸 investigación

🇹🇷 soruşturma

🇰🇷 수사

🇸🇦 تحقيق

🇨🇿 vyšetřování

🇸🇰 vyšetrovanie

🇨🇳 调查

🇸🇮 preiskava

🇮🇸 rannsókn

🇰🇿 тергеу

🇬🇪 გამოძიება

🇦🇿 istintaq

🇲🇽 investigación

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,318, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.