investigativo

Investigativo is an adjective in Portuguese that denotes relation to investigation. It derives from the verb investigar and, by extension, from Latin investigare. The term describes actions, methods, or content that seek to discover facts, verify information, or uncover motives through inquiry and analysis. The feminine form is investigativa and agrees with the noun it modifies; the noun form is less common but can appear in phrases such as um projeto investigativo.

Its use spans several domains. In journalism, the phrase jornalismo investigativo refers to reporting that aims to uncover and reveal information about wrongdoing, corruption, or systemic issues, typically relying on source verification, document analysis, and sustained research. In law enforcement and public administration, terms like procedimento investigativo or fase investigativa denote the stages and processes of gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and analyzing documents to establish facts and build a case. In education and science, metodologia ou prática investigativa describes inquiry-based approaches that emphasize observation, hypothesis testing, and data collection within research projects or classrooms. In corporate or organizational contexts, a investigação and audit can be characterized as investigativas when they focus on uncovering irregularities or assessing processes.

Relation to the word investigação is common, with investigativo serving as the descriptive counterpart. Caution is advised in media usage, as aggressive or sensational connotations can accompany claims of investigation. Related topics include jornalismo investigativo, investigação policial, and metodologia investigativa.