# inspection

/ˌɪnˈspɛkʃən/ (US) · /ɪnspˈɛkʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inspection
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. careful examination

noun · CEFR B2

the act of looking at something closely to check its condition or to find problems.

For teachers: the act of examining something carefully and critically, often to detect flaws or verify quality.

- On closer inspection, the mechanic found a small crack in the engine.
- Upon closer inspection of the ancient manuscript, the researchers discovered faint marginalia that had been overlooked for centuries.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'of' before the object being checked.

### 2. official visit

noun · CEFR B2

an official visit to a place, like a school or factory, to make sure everything is safe and follows the rules.

For teachers: a formal or official viewing of a facility or organisation to ensure compliance with regulations or standards.

- The restaurant had to close for a day during the health inspection.
- The factory underwent a rigorous safety inspection following the implementation of the new environmental protocols.

Usage: Commonly used in the context of health, safety, or education.

### 3. regulatory body

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Technical

an official group or organization that checks that laws and rules are being obeyed.

For teachers: an administrative body or agency tasked with monitoring and enforcing specific legal or professional standards.

- The school is waiting for the report from the national education inspection.
- The maritime inspection has the authority to detain any vessel that fails to meet international safety requirements.

Usage: Often functions as a collective noun for the department itself.

## Examples

- The car needs a safety inspection before we can drive it.
- The health inspector conducted a surprise inspection of the restaurant kitchen to ensure all hygiene regulations were being followed.
- Upon closer inspection, the antique vase revealed several hairline fractures that significantly diminished its value to serious collectors despite its otherwise pristine appearance.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.