Word
exploratory
Phoneticsex·plorato·ry
US/ɪksˈpɫɔɹəˌtɔɹi/
UK/ɛksplˈɔːɹətəɹˌi/
Definition
adj. done to find out more about something or to discover new things. You use this when you are just starting to look into a topic and don't have all the answers yet.
adj. relating to or involving investigation or discovery. Often describes initial actions taken to gather information before a final decision is made.
Examples
“The doctors are performing some exploratory tests today.”
“The company launched an exploratory mission to determine if the new market was worth a full investment.”
“While the initial results were inconclusive, the exploratory phase of the research provided enough data to justify a more rigorous, long-term study into the phenomenon.”
Examples
simple
“The doctors are performing some exploratory tests today.”
contextual
“The company launched an exploratory mission to determine if the new market was worth a full investment.”
complex
“While the initial results were inconclusive, the exploratory phase of the research provided enough data to justify a more rigorous, long-term study into the phenomenon.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun; often pairs with nouns like 'surgery', 'talks', or 'research'.
Real-World Examples
“Rather than helping them reach the exit more quickly, the extra space encouraged exploratory motion.” “Petrobras started the exploratory deep-water drilling operation in the area in October 2025.” Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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