exploration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exploration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to the act of investigating, examining, or traveling through an area or subject to discover new information or experiences. Example: "The exploration of Mars has revealed many fascinating insights about the planet's geology and potential for life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The exploration licence encompassed an area including an Obeid property, Cherrydale Farm, which significantly increased in value when the tenement was issued.

The Guardian

Two sons of the former Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid are being investigated by the federal competition watchdog over alleged "cartel conduct" in securing a coal exploration licence over an area that included the Obeid family's farm.

The Guardian

Runaway is among her best collections and displays all of Munro's mastery: the effortless shifts in time, sometimes across decades; the ability to convey an entire life in a few pages; the exploration of complex truths in uncomplicated language.

The Guardian

Lady Verma, energy minister and a fellow Conservative, replied: "As members are aware, fracking is at its early stages of exploration and there will be areas of landscape that won't be suitable for fracking, as you rightly point out.

The Guardian

Julio Barea, responsible for Greenpeace Spain's campaign against oil exploration in the country, said: "Now we know who defends Repsol while the environment is not defended by the ministry for justice.

The Guardian

Frack-Free Upton believe the toxic chemicals, methane gas and other pollutants produced during exploration drilling will contaminate the water supply.

The Guardian

Jump!, the debut exhibition, offers a specific exploration of the titular gameplay mechanic.

The Guardian - Travel

Macdonald faces prosecution over granting a coal mining exploration licence in the Hunter valley to Doyles Creek Mining, a company owned by former mining union official John Maitland, without putting out a tender.

The Guardian

Related: Great Barrier Reef shouldn't be on 'in danger' list for now, says Unesco In a report released on Saturday, the committee says it "has repeatedly reiterated its position that mineral exploration and exploitation is incompatible with world heritage status".

The Guardian

Cameron has rejected the need for specific shale gas regulations and has seen off EU proposals for binding rules for shale gas exploration.

The Guardian

While Australian colonial frontier exploration and settlement is predominantly characterised with extreme violence, this exhibition – Fragile First Impressions – tells of a more (but not exclusively) peaceful engagement between the Bininj and white people beginning in the mid-19th century.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exploration" to describe activities that involve a degree of uncertainty and discovery. It is best suited for situations where the outcome is not predetermined and where there is an element of venturing into the unknown.

Common error

While "exploration" is versatile, avoid overusing it in contexts that require more formal or precise language. In scientific papers or business reports, consider using more specific terms like "investigation", "analysis", or "research" to convey a higher degree of rigor and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "exploration" is as a noun, referring to the act of exploring or systematically investigating something. It aligns with the Ludwig AI analysis which confirms its correct usage in English. This is seen in examples like "oil exploration" or "urban exploration".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exploration" functions primarily as a noun, signifying the act of discovering or investigating. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It is a versatile term used across various contexts, from geographic discovery to scientific research. While generally neutral in tone, it's essential to consider the specific context and choose synonyms accordingly, especially in formal writing where more precise terms may be preferred. "Exploration" appears frequently in news and media, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples, making it a very common and widely understood term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

investigation

Focuses on a systematic or formal inquiry to discover and examine the facts of an incident, allegation etc. It suggests more scrutiny and methodical approach.

survey

Implies a detailed inspection or investigation of an area, situation, or set of data. It suggests a comprehensive overview.

study

Refers to the process of acquiring knowledge through academic activities like reading, attending lectures, or conducting research. It focuses on deepening one's understanding of a topic.

research

Emphasizes systematic investigation into a subject to discover or revise facts, theories etc. It suggests a deeper, more scholarly approach.

quest

Denotes a long or arduous search for something, often involving a journey. It suggests a determined pursuit of a goal.

expedition

Focuses on an organized journey for a particular purpose such as exploration, research, or warfare. It suggests a purposeful and planned undertaking.

search

Implies looking carefully for something lost or hidden. It suggests a focused and determined effort to find something specific.

reconnaissance

Emphasizes preliminary surveying or examination, especially to gather information. It is often used in military or strategic contexts.

probing

Suggests a thorough investigation or questioning to uncover information or issues. It indicates an incisive and revealing inquiry.

audit

Refers to a systematic review or assessment, typically of financial records. It suggests a formal examination for accuracy and compliance.

FAQs

How can I use "exploration" in a sentence?

You can use "exploration" to describe the act of discovering or investigating something new. For instance, "The "exploration" of space continues to inspire scientists" or "The company is investing in oil "exploration" projects".

What are some synonyms for "exploration"?

Depending on the context, you can use synonyms such as "investigation", "discovery", "research", or "survey".

Is "exploration" a formal or informal term?

"Exploration" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though in highly technical or scientific writing, more precise terms might be preferred. It maintains a neutral tone suitable for various audiences.

What is the difference between "exploration" and "exploitation"?

"Exploration" refers to the act of discovering or investigating, while "exploitation" refers to the act of using resources or people for profit. "Exploration" precedes "exploitation", as you need to find something before you can exploit it.