1To search for something by feel, using one's hands or fingertips, especially when it can't be seen - e.g., feeling around in the dark or in a pocket.
真っ暗な中でスイッチを探ったが、なかなか見つからなかった。
I fumbled around for the switch in the pitch dark, but couldn't find it easily.
カバンの中を探って、財布を取り出した。
I felt around in my bag and pulled out my wallet.
足で川底を探りながら渡った。
I crossed the river feeling the riverbed with my feet.
暗闇の中、壁を手で探りながら進んだ。
I moved forward in the dark, feeling my way along the wall with my hand.
2To covertly investigate the truth of a matter, or to sound out someone's thoughts or intentions.
記者は情報源に探りを入れて事件の裏を探った。
The reporter probed his sources to investigate what was behind the incident.
彼女は上司の本音を探ろうと、遠回しに質問した。
She asked indirect questions to try to sound out her boss's true feelings.
ライバル会社の動向を探るために市場調査を行った。
We conducted market research to probe the competitor's movements.
警察は容疑者の行方を探っている。
The police are investigating the suspect's whereabouts.
3To explore an unfamiliar place or subject firsthand; also used for wandering around enjoying natural scenery.
休みを利用して、まだ知らない小さな島を探ってみた。
I used my vacation to explore a small island I'd never been to.
渓谷の秘境を探るツアーに参加した。
I joined a tour exploring a hidden valley.