Translation guide
The process of examining a crime to find evidence and identify suspects. Japanese has several terms depending on the stage, formality, and context.
The overall process of investigating a crime, often used in news or formal contexts.
The most common and general term for a criminal investigation, used by police and in media.
警察は殺人事件の捜査を始めた。
The police began a criminal investigation into the murder case.
捜査は難航している。
The investigation is facing difficulties.
Refers to investigative activities or operations, emphasizing the ongoing work.
捜査活動の一環として、現場検証が行われた。
As part of the criminal investigation activities, an on-site inspection was conducted.
Explicitly 'criminal investigation', often used in legal or official contexts.
犯罪捜査の手法は年々進歩している。
Criminal investigation techniques are advancing year by year.
An investigation conducted by authorities, often with legal procedures, such as by prosecutors or in court contexts.
Also used in formal contexts; the standard term.
検察官が捜査を指揮する。
The prosecutor directs the criminal investigation.
Investigative procedures, emphasizing the legal steps.
捜査手続きに違反があった。
There was a violation in the criminal investigation procedures.
The act of investigating a crime, often with a nuance of detective work or inquiry.
Refers to detective work or a private investigation, not necessarily by police.
彼は探偵を雇って事件を調べてもらった。
He hired a detective to investigate the case.
A broad term for investigation or inquiry, not limited to crimes, but can be used in context.
The early stage of an investigation, often before formal charges.
A secret or preliminary investigation, often undercover.
警察は内偵を進めている。
The police are conducting a preliminary investigation.
A preliminary investigation before a formal one, a legal term.
予備捜査の段階で容疑者が浮上した。
A suspect emerged during the preliminary investigation.
捜査 (sousa) is specifically a criminal investigation by authorities. 調査 (chousa) is a general investigation or inquiry, which can be used for non-criminal matters like market research or academic studies.
While 犯罪 (crime) + 調査 (investigation) might seem logical, 犯罪調査 is not a standard term. Use 犯罪捜査 or simply 捜査.
The internal investigation revealed misconduct.