examine

To look at or think about something carefully to learn more about it.

• She examined the old photograph.
• We need to examine the evidence carefully.
• Have you examined all the possible causes?

Similar words: inspect, study, investigate

Common phrases: examine something closely, examine the evidence, examine something carefully, examine the scene

To check someone’s body, or something’s condition, to see whether anything is wrong.

• The doctor examined my knee.
• A vet will examine the injured dog.
• When did someone last examine your eyes?

Similar words: check, inspect

Common phrases: examine a patient, examine someone’s eyes, examine an injury

To ask someone questions in court to find out what they know about a case.

• The lawyer examined the witness.
• Each witness was examined under oath.
• The prosecutor will examine her about the events that evening.

Similar words: question, interrogate

Common phrases: examine a witness, examine someone under oath

To test someone’s knowledge or question them closely to find out what they know.

• The panel examined each candidate.
• Students will be examined orally next week.
• Investigators examined the witness about the missing money.

How to use it: examine someone on something (Students were examined on their knowledge of local history.)

Similar words: test, question, interrogate

Common phrases: examine a candidate, examine someone on something