police detective
Noun: A police officer whose specific duty is to investigate crimes, gather evidence, and solve cases. This role is distinct from uniformed patrol officers and involves specialized investigative work.
The term "police detective" is used to specify an investigator within a police force. It is a formal job title or role description. - The police detective questioned the witnesses at the scene. - She worked for ten years as a uniformed officer before becoming a police detective.
- "to be promoted to police detective": To advance in rank from a police officer to a detective position.
- After solving the high-profile case, he was promoted to police detective.
- Detective (n): A more common, shorter form that can refer to a police detective or a private investigator. Context usually clarifies the meaning.
- The detective (from the police department) reviewed the security footage.
- Investigator (n): A broader term for someone who investigates, which can include police detectives, private detectives, or legal investigators.
- Inspector (n): In some police forces, a rank or title for a senior detective.
- Investigator: One who investigates, especially to uncover facts.
- Sleuth: (Informal) A detective.
- Plainclothes officer: A police officer, including detectives, who does not wear a uniform while on duty.
- Detective work: The process of investigating a crime.
- Solving the puzzle required careful detective work.
- Detective squad/unit: The department within a police force where detectives work.
- The robbery was handed over to the detective squad.
The term "police detective" explicitly denotes a member of a public police agency. It is distinct from: - Private detective/investigator: An investigator hired by individuals or companies, not employed by a public police force. - Federal agent: An investigator for a national agency (e.g., FBI agent), though their work may be similar.
- a police officer who investigates crimes