Detailed Article for the Word “Interrogate”
What is Interrogate: Introduction
To “interrogate” is to dive deep into the unknown, a process that transforms questions into tools for uncovering hidden truths. Imagine a detective peeling back the layers of a mystery or a scientist probing data to uncover patterns—both are forms of interrogation, driven by a quest for understanding. In a world where answers are increasingly complex, the act of interrogation is more than just a procedure; it’s a crucial part of discovery and clarity in fields ranging from law enforcement to research, journalism, and even personal reflection.
Origin and History of the Word Interrogate
The word “interrogate” traces back to the Latin “interrogare,” meaning “to ask or question.” This root combines “inter” (between) and “rogare” (to ask), indicating a back-and-forth or mutual questioning. First appearing in English in the late 15th century, “interrogate” initially referred to formal questioning, especially in legal contexts. Over time, it took on broader meanings, including systematic inquiry in academic and investigative fields. Today, “interrogate” encompasses any rigorous line of questioning aimed at extracting truth or clarifying uncertainty.
Meaning and Definition of Interrogate
Interrogate (verb):
- To ask questions of (someone), typically in a formal or intense manner, especially in pursuit of information
- To examine or inquire into closely, often used in investigative or analytical contexts
- In computing, to retrieve or process information from a database or system
How to Pronounce Interrogate
in-TER-uh-gate
How to Remember Interrogate: Memory Tips
To remember “interrogate,” think of the word “inter” (between) and “gate” (a place of entry or discovery). Imagine standing at the “gate” of knowledge, asking questions to unlock what lies beyond. Another helpful mnemonic is “interview rigorously”—”interrogate” combines this intense questioning with an expectation of precision and detail.
Interrogate in a Sentence: Examples and Usage
- Law Enforcement: The detective interrogated the suspect to uncover any inconsistencies in his alibi.
- Scientific Research: Researchers interrogate data to find significant trends that could support their hypotheses.
- Journalism: The journalist interrogated the politician’s claims to verify their accuracy before publishing the story.
- Academic: Scholars often interrogate historical documents to gain new insights into past events.
- Everyday: Parents sometimes feel like they’re being interrogated when their kids ask an endless stream of “why” questions.
- Computing: The program was designed to interrogate the database for specific user information.
Difficulty Level of Using Interrogate
Intermediate:
- Commonly used in formal or investigative contexts
- Can imply intensity or formality in questioning
- Useful in academic, legal, and technical language
Modern Usage of Interrogate in Contemporary Context
The word “interrogate” has broadened beyond its traditional association with law enforcement and now finds use in a variety of fields. In technology, for instance, “interrogating” databases is a fundamental process in data science and machine learning, where software “questions” data to draw insights. In cultural studies, scholars often “interrogate” social norms or media portrayals to understand their underlying meanings and implications. Even in day-to-day language, “interrogation” suggests a deeper examination of beliefs, assumptions, and facts, reflecting our desire for thoroughness and clarity in an age of information overload.
