examine - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
examine Word Meanings
- to look at something carefully
- to inspect closely
- to test knowledge or skills
examine Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
examine Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪɡˈzæmɪn/
US
/ɪɡˈzæməˌni/
examine Word Etymology
ex- = out of, exam- = scrutinize; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a detective examining clues, meticulously sifting through evidence, out of which a story emerges.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
You place the page on the desk and move your eyes along the line, looking for signs. You adjust your seat, hold the page steady, and keep your focus as details come into view. You shift between clues and memory, feeling a light tension in your shoulders as you turn the page in your mind. The moment starts to feel like a tiny test you are giving yourself, and you learn what matters by simply looking closely.
Real Context
Examine means to look at something closely and carefully, often to form a judgment or to uncover details not obvious at first glance. It covers both physical inspection of objects and more abstract analysis, such as examining evidence, data, or a person’s skills on a test. The idea is deliberate, methodical scrutiny rather than a quick glance. In many contexts you examine a document, a scene, or a hypothesis, then decide what is true or what needs further work. The term pairs with words like examination, examiner, and examination room, signaling thorough, evidence-based consideration.
Usage Reminders
- - Use examine for careful, methodical looking or analysis
- - It collocates with examine a document, examine evidence, examine data
- - Distinguish examine from look at or inspect in tests or research
- - In formal contexts, examine often involves evaluation of knowledge or skills
- - After you examine, summarize findings or draw conclusions
Common Misconceptions
- It means only to take a quick look
- It always refers to formal exams
- It is exactly the same as inspect
- It only applies to physical objects
- If you examine, you must always reach a conclusion
Thinking Differences
In English, examine emphasizes deliberate scrutiny and can pair with exam-like contexts (tests, evidence) more strongly than a casual glance; learners often overgeneralize to look or inspect.
Learning Tips
- Learn the main collocations: examine a document, examine evidence, examine data
- Practice distinguishing examine from look at and inspect
- Use in test contexts: examiner, examination, examination room
- Create scenario-based sentences to reinforce context
- Notice formality: use in formal writing and reporting
- Listen for slight stress on the second syllable in pronunciation
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'examine'?
A.To think deeply
B.To look at closely
C.To fly in the sky
D.To cook in the oven
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'examine' correctly?
A.They wanted to examine the tasty ice cream.
B.She tried to examine the loud music.
C.He decided to examine the delicious cake.
D.I will examine my homework in the garden.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'examine'?
A.Run
B.Dance
C.Analyze
D.Sing
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'examine'?
A.Play
B.Ignore
C.Laugh
D.Read
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for 'examine'?
A.They played in the park all day.
B.She carefully inspected each document.
C.He sang his favorite song loudly.
D.The cat slept peacefully on the couch.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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