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📕 rednote ID(小红书号)：3881567312

Examine: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)

Meaning 1：inspect closely (examine)

examine 🔊

/ɪɡˈzæmɪn/

to look at something carefully and in detail to find out information or problems.

Examine definition illustrated by a doctor carefully analyzing an X-ray in a clinic.

inspect closely 🔊

➕

/ɪnˈspɛkt ˈkloʊsli/

To look at something in a detailed and careful way to understand its condition or discover facts.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'examinare' (to weigh or test), from 'ex-' (out) + '-amin-' (related to 'agmen' meaning drive).

💡 Mnemonic

A doctor checking an X-ray says, "Let me EXAM-in-it." Think: do an EXAM on it to find details inside.

📖 Example

The mechanic examined the car engine thoroughly before giving an estimate for repairs. 🔊 The mechanic inspected the car engine closely in great detail before providing a repair cost estimate.

🔗 Collocations

examine closely – to look at with great attention to detail

examine thoroughly – to inspect in a comprehensive and complete manner

examine for defects – to inspect specifically to find faults or problems

🔄 Synonyms

inspect (v.) – to look at something carefully, especially officially

scrutinize (v.) – to examine or observe something with great care and critical attention

analyze (v.) – to examine methodically and in detail, typically for explanation

🚫 Antonyms

ignore (v.) – to refuse to take notice of or acknowledge

overlook (v.) – to fail to notice or consider something

🌱 Derivatives

examiner (n.) – a person who inspects or tests something officially

examination (n.) – the act of inspecting or testing something closely

📖 Cultural Story

Originates from Latin 'examinare', meaning 'to weigh or test'. Entered English in the 14th century via French. Its core idea of careful assessment remains central, as seen in legal, medical, and academic contexts, symbolizing a systematic search for truth.

Meaning 2：test (examine)

examine 🔊

/ɪɡˈzæmɪn/

to test someone's knowledge or ability by asking questions or setting tasks.

test 🔊

➕

/test/

To formally assess someone's knowledge, skill, or understanding through questions or tasks.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example

The final exam will examine students on all the topics covered this semester. 🔊 The final test will assess students' knowledge of every subject taught during this term.

🔗 Collocations

examine on a subject – to test someone's knowledge in a particular area

critically examine – to test or assess with careful judgment and analysis

examine orally – to test knowledge through spoken questions and answers

🔄 Synonyms

test (v.) – to take measures to check the quality, performance, or reliability of something

assess (v.) – to evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of

evaluate (v.) – to form an idea of the amount, number, or value of; assess

🚫 Antonyms

pass (v.) – to be successful in a test or examination

🌱 Derivatives

exam (n.) – a formal test of a person's knowledge or proficiency in a subject or skill

examinee (n.) – a person who is taking an exam or being tested