Close inspection

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Close inspection" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a detailed examination or scrutiny of something. Example: "After close inspection of the document, we found several errors that needed to be corrected."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Close inspection reveals it most definitely isn't.

The Guardian - Books

Close inspection reveals the secret: screw heads.

The New York Times

Close inspection reveals beautiful concrete artworks on the gables.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Close inspection of my books has revealed some things.

The New York Times

Close inspection shows that these lines have sometimes been overpainted several times.

The Guardian

Close inspection revealed exactly the same pattern.

Science Magazine

Close inspection of the results reveals two general problems.

Geochemical Transactions

Close inspection revealed a possible difference in band intensities.

Genome Biology and Evolution

Close inspection revealed the presence of extracellular matrix associated with the biofilms.

BMC Pediatrics

Close inspection of junctions strengthened the case that many are true splices.

Bioinformatics

Close inspection of the pilus shows a periodic structure, which was suitable for subtomogram averaging.

eLife

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Close inspection", ensure the context clarifies what is being inspected and why the inspection is necessary. For instance, "Close inspection of the financial records revealed discrepancies."

Common error

Avoid using "Close inspection" in contexts where a simpler term like "look" or "check" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily formal or pretentious. For example, instead of saying "After close inspection, I found my keys", it's better to simply state, "I found my keys after looking."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Close inspection" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It serves as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating an act of examining something carefully. Ludwig AI shows its frequent use in various contexts, confirming its role as a noun phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Close inspection" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. It denotes a thorough examination and is commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. While versatile, it’s best suited for scenarios needing emphasis on detail. Alternatives like ""detailed examination"" or ""careful scrutiny"" can be used depending on the nuance required. Use "Close inspection" to signal thoroughness, but be mindful of overusing it in simpler contexts where a less formal term would suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Detailed examination

Emphasizes the thoroughness of the examination, focusing on minute details.

Careful scrutiny

Highlights the attentiveness and critical nature of the observation.

Thorough review

Suggests a comprehensive assessment or evaluation.

In-depth analysis

Implies a deep and penetrating investigation.

Meticulous observation

Stresses the precision and attention to detail in the observation.

Critical assessment

Focuses on evaluating the subject with a discerning eye.

Minute scrutiny

Highlights the focus on very small or trivial details.

Intensive study

Suggests a concentrated and thorough examination of a subject.

Sharp observation

Emphasizes the keenness and accuracy of the observational skills.

Rigorous investigation

Implies a stern, methodical approach in the examination.

FAQs

How can I use "Close inspection" in a sentence?

You can use "Close inspection" to emphasize a detailed examination or scrutiny. For example, "Close inspection revealed flaws in the design."

What are some alternatives to saying "Close inspection"?

Alternatives include "detailed examination", "careful scrutiny", or "thorough review" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "Close inspection" in writing?

Use "Close inspection" when you want to highlight the meticulous and careful nature of an examination. It's suitable for contexts where accuracy and detail are important.

Is "Close inspection" considered formal language?

Yes, "Close inspection" leans towards formal language and is appropriate in academic, professional, or news contexts. Simpler terms may be better suited for informal communication.