penetrate

C1 · Advanced Formal

v. to succeed in understanding something that is difficult or hidden.

v. to grasp the inner meaning or nature of something complex; to see through a mystery or obstacle.

“Scientists are still trying to penetrate the mysteries of how the brain works.”

“Despite years of intensive research, historians have struggled to penetrate the motives behind the king's sudden and unexplained abdication.”

C1 · Advanced Academic · Formal

v. to enter a group or organization secretly to get information.

v. to gain access to an organization or enemy territory, typically for the purpose of gathering intelligence or influence.

“The undercover agent managed to penetrate the criminal gang over several months.”

“The intelligence agency successfully penetrated the network, allowing them to monitor communications for several months before making any arrests.”

C1 · Advanced Medicine Technical · Formal

v. to insert the penis into a partner's body during sex.

v. to insert the penis into a body orifice; used in clinical, legal, or descriptive sexual contexts.

“The doctor explained the risks of infection during any kind of sexual penetration.”

“The legal definition of the act requires proof that the defendant intended to penetrate the victim without consent.”

C2 · Proficiency Literary

v. to have a very strong effect on someone's feelings.

v. to affect or move someone profoundly through the senses or emotions.

“The sad music seemed to penetrate her very soul.”

“The cold dampness of the cathedral seemed to penetrate his bones, adding to the somber mood of the funeral service.”