test

A set of questions or tasks that checks how much someone knows or has learned.

• We have a test tomorrow.
• She passed her English test last week.
• How many questions were on the test?

Similar words: exam, examination, quiz

Common phrases: take a test, pass a test, written test, maths test

Something you do to find out whether something works correctly.

• The test showed that the engine worked.
• We ran several tests before opening the bridge.
• Did the battery pass the test?

How to use it: test of something (We arranged a test of the new engine.)

Similar words: check, trial

Common phrases: run a test, safety test, test of something

A set of questions or tasks that checks what a student knows.

• I have a test tomorrow.
• She passed all her tests last term.
• What did you get on the spelling test?

How to use it: test on something (We have a test on the chapter tomorrow.)

Similar words: exam, examination

Common phrases: take a test, spelling test, test on something

A set of tasks used in a fixed way to measure a person’s skills or abilities.

• The test measures reading ability.
• Applicants completed an aptitude test before the interview.
• Her scores on both tests were above average.

Similar words: assessment

Common phrases: aptitude test, intelligence test, personality test

To try something to find out whether it works correctly.

• Please test the lights.
• We tested the app on three phones.
• Have you tested the new printer yet?

How to use it: test something for something (They test every engine for faults.)

Similar words: check, try out

Common phrases: test something out, test a machine, test new software

To check whether something is true, genuine, or good enough by examining it or using it.

• We need to test this idea.
• Scientists tested the theory in several experiments.
• The jeweller tested the gold to check its quality.

How to use it: test something against something (We tested the claim against the available evidence.); test something for something (The lab tests water for harmful chemicals.)

Similar words: check, verify, assess

Common phrases: test a theory, test for something, test something against something

To make someone use all their strength, patience, or ability.

• This delay will test our patience.
• The long climb tested her strength.
• Difficult times can test even the strongest friendship.

Similar words: challenge, strain

Common phrases: test someone’s patience, test someone’s strength, test someone’s limits