examining whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "examining whether" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the process of investigating or analyzing a particular condition or situation to determine its validity or truth. Example: "The researchers are examining whether the new treatment is effective in reducing symptoms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is also examining whether the server was hacked.

The Washington Post

The company said it was examining whether to cut costs.

The New York Times

He said investigators were examining whether turbulence or updrafts were a factor in the steep climb.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, BHS administrators are examining whether loans paid to Retail Acquisitions can be called in.

The Guardian - Business

Vestager is examining whether Luxembourg's tax deal is so favourable that it constitutes illegal state aid.

The Guardian - Tech

In a parallel investigation, the Federal Reserve is examining whether Crédit Lyonnais violated bank reporting requirements.

The New York Times

The office is examining whether they did anything wrong or violated procedures for transporting a prisoner.

The New York Times

Fleet is now examining whether the nasal spray will also reduce the need for epidurals.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

American officials say they are examining whether there are problematic Account 98 funds held at Samba.

The New York Times

International gymnastics officials are examining whether Yang Yun and Dong Fangxiao were old enough to compete.

The New York Times

Scientists are examining whether computer-generated avatars can help patients with schizophrenia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "examining whether" when you need to convey a careful and systematic investigation into a particular matter. It is suitable for formal contexts such as reports, research papers, and legal documents.

Common error

Avoid using "examining whether" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "checking if" or "seeing if" are more appropriate for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "examining whether" functions as an introductory phrase to a subordinate clause expressing a condition or possibility that is being investigated or considered. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "examining whether" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to introduce an inquiry or assessment, as supported by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, this phrase sets a formal tone suitable for professional writing. While it's a very common phrase, remember to choose simpler alternatives like "checking if" or "seeing if" for informal settings. Be aware that related phrases, such as "investigating if", carry slightly different nuances that may be more appropriate depending on the context. This guidance ensures effective and contextually appropriate use of "examining whether" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

investigating if

Focuses more on the act of investigation.

checking whether

Suggests a simpler, more routine form of investigation.

assessing if

Emphasizes evaluation and judgment.

considering if

Highlights the act of thinking about a possibility.

exploring whether

Implies a more in-depth and open-ended inquiry.

determining if

Focuses on reaching a conclusion or decision.

looking into if

Suggests a preliminary investigation.

probing if

Implies a thorough and potentially intrusive investigation.

scrutinizing whether

Highlights careful and critical inspection.

inquiring if

Indicates a formal request for information.

FAQs

How can I use "examining whether" in a sentence?

The phrase "examining whether" is typically used to introduce a question or condition that is being investigated. For example: "The committee is examining whether the proposed changes will improve efficiency."

What phrases are similar to "examining whether"?

You can use alternatives like "investigating if", "checking whether", or "assessing if" depending on the specific context.

Is "examining whether" formal or informal?

"Examining whether" tends to be more formal. In informal contexts, consider using phrases like "seeing if" or "checking to see if".

What's the difference between "examining whether" and "investigating whether"?

While both imply a systematic inquiry, "examining whether" suggests a more general review or assessment, while "investigating whether" often implies a more focused and potentially formal inquiry, possibly related to wrongdoing or a specific problem.