Words / B2

ig-zam-i-NAYSHUN/ɪɡˌzæmɪˈneɪʃn/

Examination is a formal word for a test, or a close look: on closer examination; a medical examination. Exam is already in the dictionary as the short form. Inspect is a close verb. Uncountable in under examination. Do not write examination when you mean the everyday exam in informal notes — but academic papers prefer examination of the evidence.

Meaning

A formal test of knowledge (formal for exam); also a close look at something.

Examples

• “On closer examination, the figures did not support the claim.”
• “On closer examination, the graph did not support the headline.”
• “A medical examination was required before the diving course, which is the health sense.”

Good to know

on closer examination; an examination of the evidence. Short: exam. Health: medical examination. Verb: examine.

Near in meaning

exam

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