‘侦破’ is a compound verb meaning ‘to solve (a criminal case)’ — specifically, to investigate and successfully crack a case through detective work. The first character 侦 (zhēn) means ‘to investigate’ or ‘to probe’, often in a formal, law-enforcement context; the second character 破 (pò) means ‘to break’ or ‘to crack’, implying the breakthrough that ends the investigation. Together, they convey the full process from gathering evidence to reaching a conclusive resolution.

This word is used almost exclusively in official, journalistic, or narrative contexts related to crime, police work, or legal proceedings. It’s not used for everyday problems or non-criminal mysteries (e.g., you wouldn’t say 侦破 a math problem). It carries a tone of authority and finality — once a case is 侦破, it’s officially closed and the perpetrator is usually identified and apprehended. The term frequently appears in news headlines, police reports, and crime dramas.