French Conversation · Level 117
58 words
French word
enquêteur
Pronunciation
IPA/ɑ̃kɛtœʁ/
Meaning
- masculine nouninvestigator
Example
Un enquêteur mène une enquête sur cet accident.
An investigator is investigating this accident.
More examples
Un enquêteur privé retrouve une personne disparue.
A private detective finds a missing person.
Core concept
An investigator who gathers accounts and evidence until the outline of a case or fact becomes clear.
Common phrases
enquêteur privé
private detective
chef enquêteur
chief investigator
enquêteur sur le terrain
field investigator
Similar words
détective: A private or professional detective who investigates crimes or disputes through interviews and leads.
policier: A police officer who protects public safety and may handle initial responses or investigations.
journaliste: A journalist who verifies facts, gathers information, and reports it in articles or broadcasts.
Definition in French
Personne qui mène une enquête en recueillant témoignages, preuves et informations pour éclaircir un fait.
Word origin
French formed enquêteur from enquête and the agent-forming suffix -eur, while enquête entered French through Old French enqueste from a Latin root meaning to seek or inquire.
Usage tips
- Enquêteur does not by itself imply police work and can describe a person conducting a journalistic or opinion survey investigation.