C1noun1K

Inspection

UK /["/ɪnˈspekʃn/"]/US /["/ɪnˈspekʃn/"]/

Definition

an official visit to a school, factory, etc. in order to check that rules are being obeyed and that standards are acceptable

In simple words: A close look at something to check it carefully.

Examples

  • The building failed the safety inspection due to multiple fire hazards.
  • An inspection of the vehicle revealed several mechanical issues.
  • Customs officers conducted an inspection of the cargo to ensure no illegal goods were present.
  • The teacher made a quick inspection of the students' homework before class.
  • During the inspection, inspectors look for compliance with environmental regulations.

Usage notes

Generally used in both formal and neutral contexts. Common in professional settings like quality control or safety checks. Less often used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

inspection + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'inspect' + 'ion' — imagine a person looking closely at a car for safety.

Collocations

  • careful
  • close
  • detailed
  • be available for
  • be open for
  • be open to
  • confirm something
  • determine something
  • reveal something
  • tour
  • visit
  • report
  • for inspection
  • on inspection
  • upon inspection
  • bear close inspection
  • bear inspection
  • closer inspection reveals something
  • careful
  • close
  • detailed
  • be available for
  • be open for
  • be open to
  • confirm something
  • determine something
  • reveal something
  • tour
  • visit
  • report
  • for inspection
  • on inspection
  • upon inspection
  • bear close inspection
  • bear inspection
  • closer inspection reveals something

Synonyms

  • examination

Antonyms

  • neglect
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'inception' due to similar sound.
  • Omitting the preposition when constructing sentences.
  • Using it as a verb instead of a noun.