inspection
in-SPEK-shun
/ɪnˈspɛkʃən/
A formal, critical examination or evaluation of a building, component, or site condition to verify compliance with standards.
Implies an official, methodical check by a qualified professional holding authority.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'inspectio', derived from 'inspecere' (to look into or peer at). It described close, thorough physical examination rather than casual viewing.
Word relationships
- audit: An audit typically focuses on financial or systemic paperwork checks, while inspection is physical.
- examination: Broader term; inspection implies checking against regulatory benchmarks.
- ignorance: Lack of knowledge due to failing to examine.
Commonly confused with
- introspection: Introspection is examining one's own thoughts; inspection is examining physical things.
Word family
- inspect (verb): To examine carefully.
- inspector (noun): An official who performs inspections.
Collocations
- pass inspection
- site inspection
- building inspection
- safety inspection
Idioms & expressions
- fail inspection
- up to inspection standard
Example sentences
- "The structural foundation must pass a rigorous inspection before framing can begin." Quality Control
Memory hook
IN-SPEC-tion requires putting on your SPECS (glasses) to look IN-to details. Looking into details with your specs.
When not to use
Do not use for a quick, casual glance.
Fun facts
- A single high-rise skyscraper can undergo over 1,000 separate municipal inspections during its construction timeline.
Related words
Explore more words
inspect, scrutinize, audit, take a look, quality control, observation
Also appears in
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