Definition
Examine refers to the action of inspecting, investigating, or studying something in detail to understand its nature, condition, or significance. This can involve analyzing a physical object, exploring ideas, or questioning individuals to assess their knowledge or condition. Examination is often systematic and thorough, aimed at uncovering information or understanding an issue more deeply.
Etymology
The word “examine” comes from the Latin examinare, meaning “to weigh, test, or consider,” derived from examen, which referred to the tongue of a balance scale, symbolizing careful consideration and measurement. Over time, it evolved to mean the act of scrutinizing or investigating something.
Units of Language Aspects: Examine
- Phonological Examination
Phonologically, the word examine consists of three syllables, with the stress placed on the second syllable: /ɪɡˈzæmɪn/. The sounds combine to form a clear, recognizable word that is used frequently in both formal and informal contexts.- Example: The phonological structure of examine is pronounced as /ɪɡˈzæmɪn/, emphasizing the second syllable.
- Morphological Examination
The morphological structure of examine consists of the root exam- (from examen in Latin, meaning to weigh or consider) and the verb form that signifies action. It forms the base for other words like examination (the act of examining) and examiner (the person who examines).- Example: The word examine serves as the root for examination, meaning the formal process of inspecting or testing.
- Syntactic Examination
In syntax, examine is a verb that often functions transitively, requiring a direct object. It can describe the action of closely inspecting physical objects, ideas, or people. It is frequently used in both active and passive forms.- Example: The scientist examined the results closely (active) vs. The results were examined by the scientist (passive).
- Semantic Examination
The semantic structure of the word examine conveys the idea of a detailed inspection, analysis, or inquiry. Semantically, it implies a close look at something with the intent of understanding it better, whether it’s a situation, person, or object.- Example: In the sentence The doctor will examine the patient, the semantic meaning focuses on the careful investigation of the patient’s condition.
- Pragmatic Examination
In pragmatics, examine is used to emphasize the importance of careful and deliberate investigation, often in formal or professional settings. It reflects a sense of thoroughness and is used in various contexts, such as legal, medical, and educational fields.- Example: In a courtroom, a lawyer examines a witness to gather information pertinent to the case, reflecting a formal and detailed inquiry.
- Lexical Examination
Lexical examination pertains to how the word examine functions as a central term in various related forms, such as examination, examiner, and reexamine. Each of these forms takes the core idea of close inspection and applies it in different contexts, expanding the lexical family of the word.- Example: The word examine is closely related to examination, a formal process used to test knowledge or inspect something thoroughly.
Synonyms
- Inspect
- Investigate
- Scrutinize
- Analyze
- Probe
- Survey
- Assess
- Explore
Antonyms
- Overlook
- Ignore
- Glance
- Neglect
- Skim
- Bypass
Related Terms and Concepts
- Examination: A formal test of knowledge or ability, or the process of carefully inspecting something.
- Cross-Examine: In legal contexts, to question a witness or party in detail to test the validity or truthfulness of their testimony.
- Autopsy: A post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death or investigate diseases.
Usage Examples
- Verb (Detailed Inspection):
The mechanic will examine the car to identify the cause of the malfunction. - Verb (Inquiry):
The committee examined the proposal to determine its feasibility. - Noun (Related to the Process):
The examination of the evidence revealed several inconsistencies. - Verb (Reexamine):
After the initial test results, the researcher decided to reexamine the data for further insights.
Creative Insight
The act of examination is fundamental to progress and understanding across various fields, from medicine to law to science. To examine is to peel back the layers of complexity in search of truth or insight. In many contexts, an examination serves as the bridge between confusion and clarity, uncertainty and knowledge. Whether it’s a doctor examining a patient or a scholar examining a text, the process involves a meticulous approach aimed at uncovering hidden details and gaining deeper insights.
In language, to examine is essential for interpretation, as meaning often depends on the context and nuances that a closer inspection reveals. This word captures the essence of inquiry and curiosity, driving the pursuit of knowledge.