Analyze

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ˈænəˌlaɪz/ (UK & US)

Definitions

Verb: To examine methodically by separating into parts and studying their interrelationships or components.

Analyze refers to the process of examining something in detail, often by breaking it down into smaller components, in order to better understand it, uncover patterns, or make decisions.

Usage Examples

• Scientists analyze data to identify trends and test hypotheses.
• The accountant will analyze the financial records to prepare the annual report.
• We need to analyze the problem before finding a solution.

Etymology

The word "analyze" originates from the Greek word "analyein," meaning "to loosen, dissolve, or resolve," combined with the Latin suffix "-ize," indicating an action or process. It entered English in the late 16th century, reflecting the growing emphasis on scientific and logical inquiry.

Synonyms

• Examine
• Evaluate
• Inspect
• Scrutinize
• Study

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Overlook
• Disregard
• Neglect

Translations in Major Global Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the pronunciation emphasizes a short "a" sound: /ˈænəˌlaɪz/.
• In American English, the pronunciation may sound slightly softer: /ˈænəˌlaɪz/ with a subtle emphasis on the "a".
• In Indian English, "analyze" is pronounced with clearer articulation of vowels, and the "z" sound is softer.

Historical Usage

The term "analyze" first appeared in English in the late 16th century, reflecting the rising interest in scientific and philosophical inquiry. As the natural and social sciences developed, so did the need for more structured and methodical analysis, which led to the widespread use of the term in academic, scientific, and later, business contexts.

Cultural Nuances

In modern times, the act of analyzing is closely associated with scientific inquiry, logical reasoning, and data-driven decision-making. The importance of "analysis" varies across cultures, but in many Western societies, it has become a fundamental part of educational curricula and professional practices, particularly in fields like business, healthcare, and engineering. In contrast, in other parts of the world, informal or traditional methods of knowledge may take precedence over structured analysis.

More Information

To analyze something is to break it down into its component parts in order to better understand how those parts relate to each other. The concept of analysis has been central to various intellectual disciplines for centuries, from philosophy to mathematics to psychology. Modern-day analysis is often done through specialized methods such as statistical analysis, computational analysis, and qualitative research. The digital age, with its vast amounts of data, has further emphasized the need for sophisticated analysis techniques to drive decisions in business, technology, medicine, and many other fields.