examination
ihg-zam-ih-NAY-shuhn
Examination (noun) means a formal test of knowledge or ability, often written or oral and done under time pressure. Example: “The bar examination decides whether you can practise law.”
noun
1
A formal test of knowledge or ability, often written or oral and done under time pressure.
"The bar examination decides whether you can practise law."
"Students must arrive early for the final examination and leave their phones outside."
"She revised every night for her history examination."
2
A check by a doctor or other professional to assess health or condition.
"The physical examination showed nothing unusual."
"The dentist's examination took only ten minutes and I needed no treatment."
"An examination of the knee showed that the swelling had gone down."
3
Close questioning, especially by a lawyer in court.
"Under cross-examination, the witness changed her story."
"The lawyer's examination of the witness lasted all afternoon."
"During her examination, the defendant was asked about the missing documents."
How to use examination
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA formal test — of a student, a patient, or a witness in court.
Common pairings
medical examination
final examination
under examination
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Word forms
- Plural
- examinations
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The bar _____ decides whether you can practise law.
Etymology
From Old French examinacion, from Latin examinatio, built on examen ("a weighing, testing").
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for examination
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for examination →
Frequently asked questions
What does “examination” mean?
The word “examination” means a formal test of knowledge or ability, often written or oral and done under time pressure. In plain terms, a formal test — of a student, a patient, or a witness in court.
How do you pronounce “examination”?
“Examination” is pronounced ihg-zam-ih-NAY-shuhn (/ɪɡˌzæm.əˈneɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “examination” in a sentence?
Here is “examination” used in a sentence: “The bar examination decides whether you can practise law.”
What part of speech is “examination”?
“Examination” is a noun.
Where does the word “examination” come from?
The word “examination” comes from Latin. From Old French examinacion, from Latin examinatio, built on examen ("a weighing, testing").
Is “examination” a common word?
“Examination” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “examination” have?
“Examination” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a formal test of knowledge or ability, often written or oral and done under time pressure.
What is the difference between 'examination' and 'exam'?
'Examination' and 'exam' mean the same thing when referring to a formal test of knowledge or ability. 'Exam' is simply the shortened, everyday form, while 'examination' is the fuller, more formal word often used in official or written contexts.
What is the difference between a medical 'examination' and a check-up?
A medical 'examination' is a check by a doctor or other professional to assess your health or condition, and it may be prompted by a specific symptom or concern. A 'check-up' usually refers to a routine examination done regularly to confirm you are well, even without symptoms. A check-up is one kind of examination.
What is the difference between 'examination' and 'inspection'?
An 'examination' is a careful assessment of knowledge, ability, or condition, and it can apply to students, patients, or evidence. An 'inspection' usually means a formal check of a place, object, or process to ensure standards are met, such as a building inspection. Examination stresses careful study, while inspection stresses checking for compliance.
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