Word
inspect
Meanings
to examine something carefully to check its condition, quality, or correctness
to officially examine a place, activity, or process to ensure rules or standards are being followed
Definition
To inspect something is to examine it carefully in order to check its condition, quality, or details.
To inspect means to look at something closely and systematically so you can find problems, confirm that it meets standards, or understand how it works. It often suggests a thorough, methodical check rather than a quick glance. People inspect objects, places, documents, and processes in both everyday and professional contexts.
Examples
- I asked the mechanic to inspect the brakes before we drove through the mountains.
- You should inspect the contract for missing dates and inconsistent terms before you sign.
- She paused to inspect the painting up close, noticing tiny cracks in the surface.
- They sent a team to inspect the site after the storm damaged several structures.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "inspect" with "suspect"; "inspect" means examine carefully, not think someone is guilty.
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.