minute examination

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minute examination" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means a thorough or detailed examination of something. Example: The doctors performed a minute examination of the patient's x-rays to determine the extent of their injuries.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Nonetheless, "Luna" is less an allegory about the universe than a minute examination of matter, and matter in this case is dancing, examined by Ms. Laurin with the microscopic precision of a lab technician.

The New York Times

Unsmiling policemen subject passports and luggage to minute examination.

The Economist

They creep stiffly across his head and face as if engaged in a minute examination for signs of life.

The Guardian

In her minute examination of these transactions, in her very self-absorption, Beatrice is a classic heroine of a bildungsroman.

The New York Times - Books

The German counter-proposals, it is repeated, "raise certain questions of principle and will necessitate a serious and minute examination".

The New York Times

Two revelatory books have recently been published, triggering minute examination of Mr Jospin's radical past in search of clues to his elusive character.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

And indeed all this adulation hardly considered seriously the core of Levi-Strauss's work, the groundbreaking analysis of kinship systems that he published on his return to France in 1947 as The Elementary Structures of Kinship, consisting of a detailed study of those societies where family ties determine who people must marry, or the minute examinations of North and South American myth.

The Guardian

The 45-minute examination was chaotic from start to finish, Anim says.

The Guardian

Initially "Carlos" was meant to be a 90-minute examination of the terrorist's capture in Sudan in 1994.

The New York Times

They have lacked the structure, imagination and dependability to cope with the 90-minute examination which Champions League football brings.

Independent

"I'm in pretty good shape," Mr. Bush said after after completing the 5-hour, 50-minute examination at Bethesda Naval Hospital.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "minute examination", ensure the context clearly indicates a detailed and thorough review, not merely a brief glance. Choose this phrase to convey precision and meticulousness.

Common error

Avoid using "minute examination" when you actually mean a brief or short examination. "Minute" in this context refers to meticulous detail, not time. For a short examination, consider using "brief review" or "quick check".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minute examination" functions as a noun phrase, where "minute" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "examination". It denotes a detailed and thorough investigation or review. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minute examination" is a grammatically correct and acceptable phrase that signifies a detailed and thorough investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for written English, particularly in contexts where precision is key. While not exceedingly common, it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science, suggesting a formal or neutral register. Related phrases include "detailed inspection" and "thorough scrutiny", offering alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. Remember to use "minute examination" when you want to emphasize the meticulous nature of the review, rather than its duration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

detailed inspection

Emphasizes the act of carefully looking at something.

thorough scrutiny

Highlights the rigor and intensity of the examination.

close analysis

Focuses on breaking down something into smaller parts for careful study.

careful investigation

Stresses the cautious and methodical nature of the inquiry.

critical assessment

Implies an evaluation with a focus on identifying strengths and weaknesses.

meticulous review

Highlights the precision and attention to detail in the review process.

exhaustive study

Emphasizes the comprehensiveness and depth of the study.

in-depth exploration

Suggests a deep and thorough examination of a topic or subject.

painstaking evaluation

Highlights the effort and care taken in the evaluation.

rigorous check

Focuses on the strictness and thoroughness of the verification.

FAQs

How can I use "minute examination" in a sentence?

You can use "minute examination" to describe a very detailed and thorough review. For example: "The scientist conducted a "minute examination" of the specimen under the microscope." or "The auditor performed a "minute examination" of the financial records."

What are some alternatives to "minute examination"?

Some alternatives to "minute examination" include "detailed inspection", "thorough scrutiny", or "close analysis". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "minute examination" the same as "cursory examination"?

No, "minute examination" and "cursory examination" are almost opposites. A "minute examination" involves careful and detailed scrutiny, while a cursory examination is quick and superficial.

When should I use "minute examination" instead of "detailed examination"?

Both "minute examination" and "detailed examination" imply a thorough review, but "minute examination" emphasizes the precision and meticulous nature of the process. Use "minute examination" when highlighting the fine-grained analysis involved.