Inspection

/ɪnˈspɛkʃən/

nounmediumCommonScience

Definitions

1

The act of carefully examining something or someone.

/ɪnˈspɛkʃən/

nounneutralmedium
Science

A careful examination or observation.

The mechanic performed a detailed inspection of the engine.

💡 Simply: Think of it like a detective looking closely at a clue, or when you check your car for problems. It means taking a close look at something to see if it's okay or if there's something wrong.

👶 For kids: When you look very carefully at something to see if it is working right.

More Examples

2

The building underwent a safety inspection.

3

The customs officer conducted an inspection of the traveler's baggage.

4

A team of experts will carry out an inspection of the construction site.

How It's Used

Business

"The annual fire safety inspection is scheduled for next week."

Engineering

"Regular inspections of the bridge are crucial for public safety."

Medical

"The doctor performed a thorough inspection of the patient's throat."

Legal

"Customs officials conducted a thorough inspection of the luggage at the airport."

Idioms & expressions

on inspection

After careful examination.

"On inspection, the damage was found to be more extensive than initially thought."

From Middle French *inspection*, from Latin *inspectio* ('a looking into'), from *inspicere* ('to look into, examine'), from *in-* ('in, into') + *specere* ('to look at').

The word 'inspection' has been used since the 16th century, initially referring to a careful looking or viewing, later evolving to encompass a formal or official examination.

Memory tip

Imagine you're a detective, carefully inspecting a crime scene for clues.

inspecioninspekshuninspecktion

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written