inspect

Everyday

1. To inspect means to look at something closely and carefully to check it or find faults. tree →
2. To inspect means to make an official visit to check that a place, like a school or restaurant, is run properly. tree →

In the lessons

In science: inspect a leaf with a magnifying glass. In everyday safety: inspect a bike before riding, inspect food for mould. In school life: inspectors visit schools. Phrases: inspect closely, inspect for damage, inspect the troops.

Examples

• The mechanic inspected the car's brakes. tree →
• We inspected the bugs with a magnifying glass. tree →
• An officer inspects the restaurant kitchen every year. tree →
• Inspect your helmet for cracks before riding. tree →
• The general inspected the soldiers. tree →
• Mum inspected my room to see if I'd tidied it. tree →
• From top to bottom they inspected the door to discover a crack large enough for him to get through, and soon found one. tree →

Note

Regular verb. Noun: inspection; person: inspector. Similar words: examine, check, look over. Formal compared with "check".