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examination
/ɪɡˈzæmɪneɪʃən/
a formal test or assessment
She passed her final examination with flying colors.
She did very well on her final test.
formal
a formal test or assessment of a person's knowledge or skills
Medical students must pass their board examinations to practice.
Medical students need to pass their official tests to become doctors.
Common in academic and professional contexts.
general
a thorough inspection or analysis of something
The police conducted an examination of the crime scene.
The police carefully inspected the crime scene.
Used in both literal and figurative senses.
Collocations
final examinationthe last test in a course or programoral examinationa test conducted through spoken questionsmedical examinationa check-up by a doctor
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Formal vs. General Use
In formal contexts, 'examination' often refers to academic or professional tests. In general use, it can mean any thorough inspection.
Gold Rule
Plural Form
The plural form is 'examinations,' but in informal speech, 'exams' is more common.
Word Origin
From Latin 'examinare' (to test, examine), from 'ex-' (out) + 'agere' (to drive).
Usage Notes
Often used in formal or academic settings. Can refer to both tests and detailed inspections.
Word Breakdown
exam
short for examination
root-ination
action or process
suffixEnglish Dictionary