Words / B1

in-SPEKT/ɪnˈspekt/

To inspect is to look at something carefully in order to check it: inspect the work; inspect a vehicle; inspect a building. Check is the everyday verb; examine can be more medical or academic; search is looking for something hidden. Inspection is the noun: a safety inspection. Inspector is the job. Inspect for damage / defects. Do not write “inspect on the machine” — use inspect the machine, or inspect it for faults.

Meaning

To look at something carefully in order to check it.

Examples

• “The teacher inspected our work for mistakes.”
• “Mechanics inspect the vehicle before it goes back on the road.”
• “An officer inspected the documents at the border.”

Good to know

inspect + object. inspect for + problem. Noun: inspection. Job: inspector. Everyday: check. Medical/academic: examine.

Near in meaning

check

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