inspect
ihn-SPEHKT
Inspect (verb) means to examine something carefully, often to check for problems or verify its condition. Example: “The mechanic inspected the brakes before the long drive.”
verb
1
To examine something carefully, often to check for problems or verify its condition.
"The mechanic inspected the brakes before the long drive."
"Officials will inspect the restaurant's kitchen next week."
"Customs officers inspect each suitcase carefully for forbidden items."
"Inspect the system for leaks."
How to use inspect
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo look closely at something to check its quality, safety, or condition.
Common pairings
inspect closely
inspect for damage
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- inspects
- Past tense
- inspected
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The mechanic _____ the brakes before the long drive.
Etymology
From Latin inspicere ("to look into"), from in- + specere ("to look at").
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “inspect” mean?
The word “inspect” means to examine something carefully, often to check for problems or verify its condition. In plain terms, to look closely at something to check its quality, safety, or condition.
How do you pronounce “inspect”?
“Inspect” is pronounced ihn-SPEHKT (/ɪnˈspɛkt/ in IPA).
How do you use “inspect” in a sentence?
Here is “inspect” used in a sentence: “The mechanic inspected the brakes before the long drive.”
What part of speech is “inspect”?
“Inspect” is a verb.
Where does the word “inspect” come from?
The word “inspect” comes from Latin. From Latin inspicere ("to look into"), from in- + specere ("to look at").
Is “inspect” a common word?
“Inspect” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between inspect and examine?
Inspect and examine both mean to look at something carefully, but inspect often implies checking for problems, defects, or compliance with a standard, such as inspecting a vehicle. Examine is broader and can apply to studying, testing, or analyzing something in detail, including ideas or people, not just physical objects.
Is inspect a formal word?
Inspect tends to have a slightly formal or official tone, often used in contexts like safety inspections, quality control, or customs checks. In everyday conversation, people are just as likely to say check or look over, reserving inspect for more careful or official scrutiny.
What is commonly inspected in official settings?
Common objects of inspection include buildings, vehicles, food products, and workplaces, where an inspector checks for safety, quality, or legal compliance. The word is also used for less formal checking, such as inspecting a piece of fruit before buying it, though the underlying idea remains careful examination for problems.
