English Reference

Word

research

Phoneticsre·search, stress on the first syllable

/ˈɹisɝtʃ/

Definitions

01systematic study

A2 · Elementary Uncountable noun Academic

n. the detailed study of something to discover new information or reach a new understanding.

n. the systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions.

“The scientists are doing research to find a cure for the disease.”

“Recent medical research suggests that a diet high in processed sugars may contribute significantly to chronic inflammation in older adults.”

Usage

Usually uncountable in general usage; plural 'researches' is restricted to formal or older academic contexts.

Pitfall

I have many researches to do for my essay.

I have a lot of research to do for my essay.

In general English, 'research' is usually uncountable. Use 'some research' or 'pieces of research' instead of the plural 'researches'.

02to investigate

B1 · Intermediate Academic

v. to study a subject in detail, especially to find new information.

v. to carry out a systematic investigation into a subject or problem.

“You should research the company before you go for your job interview.”

“The graduate student spent three years researching the impact of urban green spaces on the mental health of local residents.”

Usage

Can be used with or without a direct object.

Antonyms

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “research” in context.

01. research team 02. research suggests 03. research shows 04. additional research 05. applied research 06. carry research 07. conduct research 08. research published 09. research behind our articles 10. research focuses 11. research group 12. research fellow

Confusables

research vs study

Study is the broad act of learning or examining a subject, while research is a systematic investigation to find new facts or reach new conclusions.

RememberStudy to learn; research to discover.

Etymology

Early Modern French rechercher (“to examine closely”), from Old French recerchier (“to seek, to look for”), by surface analysis, re- + search.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

NOUN

research(A2)

Related words

This entry

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.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL 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: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Very common
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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