Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪɡˈzæmɪˈneɪʃən/

Definitions

• The act of examining something, especially in detail, for the purpose of assessment or investigation.
• A formal test of knowledge or ability, often in an academic context.
• A medical test, such as a physical exam or diagnostic procedure.
• The process of inspecting, reviewing, or analyzing something carefully.

Usage Examples

• "The examination of the evidence revealed new facts in the case."
• "She passed her final examination with high marks."
• "The doctor conducted a thorough examination to diagnose the illness."

Etymology

The word "examination" comes from the Latin "examinatio," which is derived from "examinare" (to weigh or test). The term historically referred to the act of scrutinizing or investigating something carefully, which is reflected in its modern use to describe formal testing, reviews, or assessments in various fields, including education, law, and medicine.

Synonyms

• Assessment
• Test
• Inspection
• Evaluation
• Analysis
• Review

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Disregard
• Overlook
• Ignore

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, the stress tends to be on the second syllable, whereas American English may emphasize the first syllable.
• In certain regions, like parts of India, the pronunciation might be more syllabic with a slightly softer stress.

Historical Usage

The word "examination" has been used in English since the 14th century, derived from the Latin "examinatio," meaning "a weighing or trial." Originally used in legal and academic contexts, it expanded over time to cover any process of evaluation, especially in education and medicine. In older texts, it was closely linked to formal testing or scrutinizing a subject in depth.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, examinations are not only seen as academic milestones but also as rites of passage. In countries like India, exams often represent a key turning point in a student's life and career. Similarly, in professional fields, examinations (e.g., medical exams or legal bar exams) are viewed as necessary credentials to practice within certain industries. Thus, the word "examination" often carries a formal, sometimes stressful, connotation.

More Information

The concept of an examination has evolved over time. While initially tied to legal processes, it is now commonly associated with assessments in education and medicine. For instance, academic examinations evaluate a student’s understanding of a subject, while medical examinations are designed to diagnose and evaluate health conditions. The broad use of the term "examination" reflects its importance in decision-making, testing, and assessment across multiple spheres of life. Its historical roots in thoroughness and careful assessment continue to influence its current application.