ENGLISH
REFERENCE

examine

v.
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ɪɡˈzæmɪn// UK //ɛɡzˈæmɪn// ex·am·ine General-service Informal

v. to look at something very carefully to learn more about it or to find a problem. You do this when you want to understand how something works or check if it is okay.

v. to inspect or investigate something closely and in detail to determine its nature, condition, or validity. Transitive — requires a direct object.


SIMPLE

The doctor needs to examine your throat.

CONTEXTUAL

The customs officer will examine your luggage before you are allowed to enter the country.

COMPLEX

The committee will examine the proposed legislation to ensure it does not conflict with existing environmental protections or international trade agreements.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English examinen, examenen, from Old French examiner, from Latin exāmināre.

Usage

The verb is transitive and takes a direct object. It is frequently used in medical, legal, and academic contexts.

Pitfall

examine about the problemexamine the problemExamine is a transitive verb and does not take the preposition 'about'.

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