The investigation proceeded
Research methodology and reporting expression
Use this to describe a formal search for facts that is moving forward according to a plan.
In 15 Seconds
- Describes an inquiry moving forward in an orderly fashion.
- Common in news, legal reports, and academic writing.
- Implies a professional, step-by-step approach to finding facts.
Meaning
This phrase describes the steady, step-by-step movement of an official inquiry or a detailed study. It suggests that the process is moving forward according to a plan or a specific timeline.
Key Examples
3 of 6Reporting a workplace incident
The investigation proceeded after the initial safety report was filed.
The investigation proceeded after the initial safety report was filed.
Writing a mystery novel
The investigation proceeded slowly, as the detective lacked clear clues.
The investigation proceeded slowly, as the detective lacked clear clues.
A humorous family mystery
The investigation into the missing cake proceeded with a search of the kitchen.
The investigation into the missing cake proceeded with a search of the kitchen.
Cultural Background
The phrase is deeply rooted in the Western legal tradition of 'procedural justice.' It gained massive popularity through the rise of the 'whodunnit' mystery genre and modern police procedurals, where the process of discovery is as important as the solution itself.
Pair with Adverbs
This phrase is a 'blank canvas'. Use adverbs like 'smoothly', 'rapidly', or 'systematically' to tell your audience exactly how things are going.
Don't Overuse in Casual Chat
If you use this with friends about small things (like finding a lost sock), they might think you're being sarcastic or acting like a TV cop.
In 15 Seconds
- Describes an inquiry moving forward in an orderly fashion.
- Common in news, legal reports, and academic writing.
- Implies a professional, step-by-step approach to finding facts.
What It Means
The investigation proceeded is a way to say a search for facts has started moving. It implies a sense of order and professional rhythm. Think of it like a train leaving the station. It isn't just 'happening'; it is following a set track. You are telling your listener that the gears are turning.
How To Use It
You use this when you want to sound objective and calm. It works best when describing a sequence of events. You can add adverbs to change the flavor. For example, The investigation proceeded rapidly sounds like an action movie. Meanwhile, The investigation proceeded cautiously sounds like a tense courtroom drama. Use it to bridge two different parts of a story. It helps your listener follow the timeline of a complex situation.
When To Use It
This is your go-to phrase for work reports or academic papers. Use it when a boss asks for an update on a project issue. It is perfect for news stories or true crime podcasts. You might even use it when explaining a mystery at home. Imagine your cookies went missing and you are 'investigating' the dog. It adds a touch of mock-seriousness to everyday life.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase during a casual chat about your feelings. Don't say it when the action is chaotic or unplanned. If you are just 'looking for' your keys, this phrase is too heavy. It sounds weird if the process is stuck or stopped. If nothing is moving, don't use proceeded. Also, avoid it in high-energy, slang-heavy environments like a loud party. You will sound like a robot or a police officer.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the world of law and bureaucracy. English speakers love to use formal 'police-speak' to sound more authoritative. It reflects a cultural value placed on 'due process' and logic. In the UK and US, procedural dramas (like Law & Order) have made this phrase very common. It carries the weight of the legal system even in casual conversation. It suggests that truth is something found through a steady, patient journey.
Common Variations
You will often see The investigation is proceeding. This version means the work is happening right now. You might also hear The investigation proceeded apace, which is a fancy way to say 'quickly'. Sometimes people say The inquiry proceeded for less criminal matters. If things go wrong, you might hear The investigation proceeded fitfully. That means it kept starting and stopping like an old car.
Usage Notes
This phrase sits firmly in the 'formal' and 'professional' registers. It is most effective when you want to sound detached, objective, and methodical.
Pair with Adverbs
This phrase is a 'blank canvas'. Use adverbs like 'smoothly', 'rapidly', or 'systematically' to tell your audience exactly how things are going.
Don't Overuse in Casual Chat
If you use this with friends about small things (like finding a lost sock), they might think you're being sarcastic or acting like a TV cop.
The 'Passive' Secret
In English, using this phrase often hides 'who' is doing the work. It makes the process sound more objective and less like a personal opinion.
Examples
6The investigation proceeded after the initial safety report was filed.
The investigation proceeded after the initial safety report was filed.
Shows a clear sequence of professional events.
The investigation proceeded slowly, as the detective lacked clear clues.
The investigation proceeded slowly, as the detective lacked clear clues.
Sets a narrative pace and tone.
The investigation into the missing cake proceeded with a search of the kitchen.
The investigation into the missing cake proceeded with a search of the kitchen.
Uses formal language for a silly situation to create irony.
The investigation proceeded to the second phase of data collection.
The investigation proceeded to the second phase of data collection.
Standard way to describe methodology steps.
Please be assured the investigation proceeded exactly as we discussed.
Please be assured the investigation proceeded exactly as we discussed.
Provides comfort through a sense of order and control.
The investigation proceeded to the server logs this morning.
The investigation proceeded to the server logs this morning.
Brief but professional update on a task.
Test Yourself
Choose the best adverb to show that the investigation was done very carefully.
The investigation ___ with great attention to every tiny detail.
'Cautiously' matches the context of paying attention to tiny details.
Complete the sentence to describe a completed action in a report.
Once the witnesses were identified, the ___ to the interview stage.
This shows the logical next step in a formal process.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Spectrum of 'The investigation proceeded'
I looked into it.
I checked the fridge for your milk.
The search moved forward.
We started looking for the cause of the leak.
The investigation proceeded.
The investigation proceeded despite the lack of evidence.
The inquiry was conducted.
The statutory inquiry was conducted in accordance with the law.
Where to use 'The investigation proceeded'
News Report
The investigation proceeded into the night.
Lab Report
The investigation proceeded to the chemical analysis.
Legal Case
The investigation proceeded to the grand jury.
Corporate Update
The investigation proceeded as scheduled.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNot at all! While it sounds like a detective movie, you can use it for scientific research, journalism, or even checking a bug in computer code.
Proceeded is much more formal and implies a structured plan. Went on is casual and can describe something happening by accident.
Yes, you can say The investigation is proceeding. This is very common in news updates when the search is still active.
Usually, yes. However, you can use it jokingly at home, like The investigation into who ate the last cookie proceeded with a search of the dog's bed.
No, it just means it moved forward. It describes the journey, not necessarily the destination or the end result.
Technically no. If things are getting worse or confusing, we usually say the investigation stalled or was hampered.
It is perfectly standard in both! You will hear it on the BBC and CNN alike whenever a formal inquiry is mentioned.
You could say We kept looking into it or The search continued. These are much friendlier for a coffee-shop chat.
Yes, it is excellent for a science project or a history paper. It makes your work sound very professional and organized.
This is a very formal variation. It means the investigation moved forward quickly and efficiently.
Related Phrases
The inquiry continued
A slightly less formal way to say the search for answers is still happening.
Underway
A word used to say that a process or investigation has started.
Following a lead
A specific part of an investigation where you pursue a piece of evidence.
Due diligence
The formal process of checking all the facts before making a decision.
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