a surface examination of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a surface examination of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a preliminary or superficial analysis of a subject or topic. Example: "The report provides a surface examination of the current economic trends without delving into deeper analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A surface examination of the fracture region revealed striations, and it was confirmed that the fracture mode was fatigue.

Engineering Failure Analysis

A surface examination of records would not have revealed these problems.

BioMed Research International

This will reduce the possibility of biases in enrolment and the risk of false negative results (e.g. when a surface examination of a baby was not complete).

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Its methods, case record forms (CRFs) and training materials (including a DVD showing how to conduct a surface examination of a newborn) have been tested for feasibility in five countries (four in Africa and one in South America).

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

However, later surface examination of a grey green grain under vacuum condition in SEM EDS analysis clearly showed most of the constituent elements of green earth like celadonite, K Mg,Fe2+)(Fe3+,Al)[Si4O10](or)2, or glauconite, (K,Na)(Mg,Fe2+,Fe3+)(Fe3+,as)(shown)4O10(OH)2, as shown in Fig. 7.

Heritage Science

Surface examination of the coatings was investigated using SEM-EDS and macroscopic imaging.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Surface examination of the samples was investigated using AFM, SEM-EDS and macroscopic images.

Thin Solid Films

Surface examination of the samples was investigated using SEM-EDS and macroscopic images.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Surface examination of Ni P W and Ni P Al2O3 using XRD, SEM-EDS and macroscopic images revealed grain refining of Ni grains.

Materials Letters

Surface examination of the fragment by digital microscopy as well as UV-induced fluorescence photography showed residues of an organic coating on top of the paint layer.

Heritage Science

From surface examination of the painting the lining of the Virgin's mantle looks as if it had been painted using a glaze of azurite over a layer of yellow paint.

Heritage Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a surface examination of" when you want to indicate that you are providing a basic or introductory analysis without going into extensive detail. It is appropriate for overviews, summaries, or initial assessments where depth is not required.

Common error

Avoid using "a surface examination of" when a thorough, in-depth analysis is needed. This phrase implies a lack of detail, so ensure it aligns with your intended level of analysis to prevent misleading your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a surface examination of" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig confirms its usability. It describes the act of reviewing or inspecting something in a preliminary or superficial manner.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a surface examination of" is a noun phrase used to describe a basic or initial analysis, suitable for overviews or preliminary assessments. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Usage is more common in scientific and technical contexts, indicating a formal register. While alternative phrases like "a cursory review of" or "a superficial analysis of" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Ensure the level of detail implied by the phrase aligns with your intended message to avoid misleading the audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a cursory review of

Emphasizes a quick and not very detailed examination.

a superficial analysis of

Highlights the lack of depth in the examination.

a brief overview of

Suggests a short and general account.

a preliminary assessment of

Indicates an initial evaluation before further investigation.

an initial inspection of

Focuses on a visual or physical check at the beginning.

a shallow investigation of

Implies that the research did not go into great depth.

a quick scan of

Suggests a very rapid and often incomplete examination.

a light perusal of

Implies a casual and leisurely examination.

a passing glance at

Indicates a very brief and almost unintentional look.

a top-level study of

Implies the study is focused on leadership of management

FAQs

How to use "a surface examination of" in a sentence?

You can use "a surface examination of" to describe a preliminary investigation or a brief overview of a topic. For example, "The report provides "a surface examination of" the key issues without delving into the specifics."

What can I say instead of "a surface examination of"?

You can use alternatives like "a cursory review of", "a superficial analysis of", or "a brief overview of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a surface examination of"?

It is appropriate when you want to convey that your analysis is not exhaustive and only covers the main points. It is also suitable for introductions, summaries, or when time/resources are limited.

What's the difference between "a surface examination of" and "a thorough analysis of"?

"A surface examination of" implies a brief, high-level overview, while "a thorough analysis of" suggests a detailed, in-depth investigation. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the depth of your analysis.