investigative
adj.adj. used to describe work or people that try to find out the truth about something, especially something hidden or secret. You often hear this when talking about reporters or the police.
adj. relating to or involving a systematic examination or research into a specific matter, typically to uncover hidden facts or illegal activity. Often modifies nouns related to journalism, law enforcement, or formal inquiry.
The reporter won an award for her investigative work.
The police launched an investigative probe into the company's finances after several employees reported missing funds.
Successful investigative journalism requires not only a keen eye for detail but also the patience to sift through thousands of public records to find a single piece of evidence.
From investigate + -ive.
Typically precedes the noun it modifies; often used in professional or legal contexts.