Reading Theme:
Analysis: Definition, Usage & Common Mistakes (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：breakdown (analysis)
analysis
/əˈnæləsɪs/
n.
The act of breaking something into parts to understand it.
breakdown
➕
/ˈbreɪkdaʊn/
n.
The process of deconstructing or separating a whole into its constituent parts in order to study, understand, or explain its structure, function, or nature.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Greek 'ana-' (up, back) + 'lysis' (a loosening), meaning 'to loosen up or break apart'.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'Anna lists' all the parts of a problem. 'Anna lists' sounds like 'analysis'.
📖 Example
The tech company's analysis of user data led to a successful new feature.
The tech company's breakdown of user data led to a successful new feature.
🔗 Collocations
in-depth analysis – a very detailed and thorough examination
data analysis – the process of inspecting, cleaning, and modeling data to discover useful information
carry out an analysis – to perform or conduct a systematic study
🔄 Synonyms
examination (n.) – A detailed inspection or investigation.
investigation (n.) – A formal or systematic inquiry or study.
dissection (n.) – A detailed analysis or examination, especially of a complex subject.
🚫 Antonyms
synthesis (n.) – The combination of parts or elements to form a complex whole; the opposite of breaking down.
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from ancient Greek mathematical practices, 'analysis' described the process of breaking down a problem. It became central to Enlightenment philosophy (e.g., Descartes) as a method of systematic reasoning and later underpinned modern scientific inquiry and business strategy.
Meaning 2：detailed report (analysis)
analysis
/əˈnæləsɪs/
n.
A detailed report after careful study of something.
detailed report
➕
/ˈdiːteɪld rɪˈpɔːrt/
n.
A written or spoken presentation of the findings, conclusions, or results obtained from a systematic study or investigation.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Her detailed analysis of the novel impressed the literature professor.
Her detailed report on the novel impressed the literature professor.
🔗 Collocations
critical analysis – a report that evaluates the merits and faults of a subject
present an analysis – to deliver or show the results of a study
financial analysis – a report assessing the financial health and performance of a company
🔄 Synonyms
study (n.) – A detailed investigation and analysis of a subject.
review (n.) – A formal assessment or examination with the intention to evaluate.
assessment (n.) – The action of evaluating or judging something, often resulting in a report.
🚫 Antonyms
summary (n.) – A brief statement of main points, lacking detailed examination.
🌱 Derivatives
analytic (adj.) – Relating to or using analysis or logical reasoning.
analytical (adj.) – Skilled in or characterized by analysis.
Wordbook
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