Sleuthing: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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