test detects

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "test detects" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where a test is identifying or discovering something, such as in scientific or technical discussions. Example: "The test detects the presence of harmful bacteria in the water sample."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This test detects 17 respiratory viruses, including enterovirus (generic detection).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

The test detects the genetic signature of the virus.

The New York Times

The Ames test detects bacterial reverse mutations.

Encyclopedia of Toxicology

This test detects anxiety-like behaviors in mice.

Nature

The test detects whether antibodies to H.I.V. are present in the patient's blood.

The New York Times

But even when a test detects cancer, the discovery may not be lifesaving.

The New York Times

Cheaper, quicker, safer and more sensitive, the test detects antibodies rather than bacteria.

Cornell University

This test detects antibodies produced either by natural exposure to the viruses or vaccination.

Cornell University

Description: This test detects antibodies to the transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) virus/ porcine respiratory coronavirus.

Cornell University

The team's first test detects fertilization, providing couples with answers in hours rather than weeks.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Description: This test detects the DNA of Anaplasma marginale, the agent of bovine Anaplasmosis.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "test detects", ensure that the subject performing the detection is clearly identified. For example, specify the type of test (e.g., "blood test", "genetic test") to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "test detects" with overly broad or unsubstantiated claims. Be specific about what the test is capable of detecting and the limitations of its accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "test detects" primarily functions as a declarative statement, asserting the capability of a test to identify or discover something. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts, from medical diagnostics to scientific research.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

36%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "test detects" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression for describing the capability of a test to identify or discover specific elements. Ludwig's analysis highlights its prevalence in scientific, news, and academic contexts, indicating its suitability for both neutral and formal communication. While alternatives like "test identifies" and "assay reveals" exist, "test detects" remains a clear and concise way to convey a test's functionality. It's important to be specific about what the test can detect and to avoid making overly broad or unsubstantiated claims.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

test identifies

Replaces "detects" with "identifies", focusing on pinpointing specific elements.

test reveals

Uses "reveals" instead of "detects", emphasizing the uncovering of information.

assay identifies

Substitutes "test" with "assay" and "detects" with "identifies", suitable in scientific contexts.

assay reveals

Combines "assay" with "reveals", highlighting the uncovering of specific information through a scientific procedure.

screening identifies

Uses "screening" to replace "test" and "identifies" for "detects", appropriate in medical or security contexts.

screening uncovers

Employs "screening" and "uncovers", suggesting a more thorough and broad discovery process.

analysis indicates

Replaces "test" with "analysis" and "detects" with "indicates", focusing on the results of a detailed examination.

analysis confirms

Uses "analysis" with "confirms", emphasizing the validation of specific findings.

examination uncovers

Substitutes "test" with "examination" and "detects" with "uncovers", suitable for a more investigative approach.

examination reveals

Combines "examination" with "reveals", highlighting the disclosure of information through investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "test detects" in a sentence?

You can use "test detects" to describe the function of a test in identifying something specific, such as "This "test detects" the presence of antibodies" or "The "test detects" genetic mutations".

What are some alternatives to "test detects"?

Alternatives include phrases like "test identifies", "test reveals", or "assay indicates", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it better to say "test detects" or "test identifies"?

Both ""test detects"" and "test identifies" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably. However, "identifies" might be more appropriate when referring to the pinpointing of specific elements, while "detects" is suitable for indicating the presence of something.

Can "test detects" be used in both formal and informal writing?

Yes, ""test detects"" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing, though in more formal contexts, alternatives such as "analysis reveals" may be preferred.