What is examination? Pronunciation and usage in English

examination means . Learn how to pronounce and use examination through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of examination

examinationnoun

/ɪɡˌzamɪˈneɪʃn//ɛɡˌzamɪˈneɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of examination

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "examination" in English. It's a tricky word! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word is divided into three syllables:

  • ex - (like "text")
  • ami - (like "a-me")
  • na - (like "Anna")

2. Pronunciation (Phonetic Spelling):

Here's a phonetic spelling that comes close to how it's pronounced:

  • /ɪɡˈzæmɪneɪʃən/

Let's break down that phonetic spelling:

  • /ɪ/ – a short "i" sound, like in "bit"
  • /ɡ/ – a hard "g" sound, like in "go"
  • /ˈzæ/ – "z" as in "zebra" followed by the short "a" in "cat"
  • /mɪ/ – "m" followed by the short "i" (as above)
  • /neɪ/ – "nay" (rhymes with "say")
  • /ʃən/ – the "sh" sound followed by an "n" and the "-tion" ending

3. Putting it Together - a Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start with the "ex" sound – like "text."
  2. Add the "ami" sound – "a-me."
  3. Finish with the "na" sound – “Anna.”

4. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "ex-a-mina-tion." The "ami" is a connected sound, not three separate syllables.
  • The 'x' is not pronounced. It’s a silent letter.
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the second syllable ("ami").

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

  • Google Search: Search “How to pronounce examination” – you’ll find audio clips from Merriam-Webster and other reliable sources.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/examination/ – This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.
  • Youglish: https://youglish.com/w/examination - This shows you how the word is actually pronounced in real-world videos.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a similar word to practice with?

Usage and examples with the word examination in English

Let's break down how to use the word "examination" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances.

1. As a noun (the core meaning):

  • Formal Test/Assessment: This is the most common usage. It refers to a structured event where a person's knowledge, skills, or abilities are assessed.
    • “I have an examination in history next week.” (A test)
    • “The students took the final examination.” (A formal test)
    • “The police conducted an examination of the crime scene.” (An investigation - a type of examination)

2. Types of Examinations:

  • Written Examination: A test administered on paper or a computer.
    • “She aced the written examination.”
  • Oral Examination: A test conducted through questioning.
    • “He passed the oral examination with flying colors.”
  • Practical Examination: An assessment of skills and abilities through hands-on activities.
    • “The trainee completed his practical examination.”
  • Medical Examination: A check-up to assess health.
    • “I need to go for a medical examination.”
  • Security Examination: A thorough check for safety, often of buildings or people.
    • “The airport conducted a security examination of all passengers.”
  • Psychological Examination: An assessment of mental health and abilities.
    • “He took a psychological examination to determine if he was suitable for the job.”

3. As a verb (less common, but important to know):

  • To examine thoroughly: To inspect or investigate carefully.
    • “The police are examining the evidence.” (They are investigating it closely.)
    • “The doctor will examine you before giving you a diagnosis.” (The doctor will inspect you.)
    • “We need to examine all the data to find a solution.”

4. Phrases using "examination":

  • Examination period: The time when examinations are taking place.
    • “The examination period is stressful for students.”
  • Detailed examination: A thorough and careful examination.
  • Formal examination: A serious, official examination (often used for qualifications).
  • Examination board: The body responsible for setting and grading examinations.

Tips for Using "Examination" Correctly:

  • Formal Tone: "Examination" is generally a more formal word than just "test." It’s suitable for academic, professional, and official contexts.
  • Specificity: Try to be specific about what is being examined. Adding details will make your sentence more clear.

Example Sentences (Combining different usages):

  • “The university conducts rigorous examinations to ensure the quality of its graduates." (noun - tests)
  • “The forensic team is examining the bullet casings found at the scene.” (verb - inspecting)
  • “She prepared diligently for the written examination in mathematics.” (noun - written test)

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What is the context you're thinking about? (e.g., school, work, general conversation?)
  • Are you trying to use "examination" as a noun or a verb?

Synonyms for the word examination

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