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Survey Definition, Usage & Key Differences (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：questionnaire study (survey)
survey
/ˈsɜːrveɪ/
n.
A way to find out what people think or do, usually by asking many people the same set of questions and studying their answers.
questionnaire study
➕
/ˌkwestʃəˈneər ˈstʌdi/
n.
A systematic method of gathering information from a sample of individuals, typically through questions, to understand opinions, behaviors, or characteristics of a larger population.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'super' (over) + 'videre' (to see). To look over or inspect.
💡 Mnemonic
SURVEY = Seeing Users' Replies Very Easily Yields insights.
📖 Example
The company conducted an online survey to ask customers about their opinions on the new app design.
The company conducted an online questionnaire study to ask customers about their opinions on the new app design.
🔗 Collocations
conduct a survey – to carry out or perform a survey
online survey – a survey distributed and completed via the internet
survey results – the data and findings obtained from a survey
🔄 Synonyms
poll (n.) – A survey of public opinion, often focusing on voting intentions or specific issues.
questionnaire (n.) – A written list of questions used for gathering information from respondents.
study (n.) – A detailed investigation and analysis of a subject, which can involve surveys.
🚫 Antonyms
assumption (n.) – Something accepted as true without proof or systematic inquiry.
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
From Anglo-French 'surveier' (13th c.), meaning to oversee. Historically linked to land assessment for taxation or planning. Today, it's a core tool in market research, social science, and policy-making for data-driven decisions.
Meaning 2：land inspection (survey)
survey
/ˈsɜːrveɪ/
n.
A close examination and measurement of an area of land or a building, often done to draw a map or check its condition.
land inspection
➕
/lænd ɪnˈspekʃən/
n.
The professional examination and measurement of a piece of land or a structure to determine its boundaries, features, or condition, often for the purpose of making a map or plan.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
Before buying the old house, they hired an expert to do a thorough building survey to check for any structural problems.
Before buying the old house, they hired an expert to do a thorough building land inspection to check for any structural problems.
🔗 Collocations
land survey – the process of measuring and mapping land areas
building survey – a detailed inspection of a property's condition
survey report – a document detailing the findings of a survey
🔄 Synonyms
inspection (n.) – A careful examination or scrutiny.
assessment (n.) – The action of evaluating or estimating the nature, quality, or value of something.
examination (n.) – A detailed inspection or investigation.
🚫 Antonyms
neglect (n.) – The state of being uncared for or not receiving proper attention.
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