to screen for something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'to screen for something' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the process of systematically testing for something, such as a disease or condition. For example: "Doctors are now screening for hepatitis C in all those born between 1945 and 1965."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Before, Ms. Lawton said, "they didn't want to screen for something they could do nothing about".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It went from something we didn't even think to screen for to something we now ask all the kids about," she said.

The New York Times

For example, it is one thing to screen for trauma, but something else entirely to be able to provide the services that are needed in response.

Huffington Post

Some GPs cautiously embraced opportunities to more routinely screen for depression using tools such as the Personal Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) [ 16]: "...one of the good things that's happened recently with QOF targets and parameters...is to screen for depression so its something that we are now actively doing and may not have done four or five years ago" [HCP12].

BMC Family Practice

Several companies are now offering more comprehensive and affordable ways for couples to screen for hundreds of rare diseases -- something that was barely possible only a decade ago.

Huffington Post

Indeed, the fans were so into it that they ignored a couple of cheap turnovers from Deng as they happily lapped up the NBA's unique atmosphere, clapping with every organ stroke and even unashamedly dancing on the O2's big screen for something called Disco Cam.

The Guardian - Sport

These larger-screen options forgo the traditional 3.5-inch screen for something a bit more luxurious.

TechCrunch

The television is tuned to BFM, and all available eyes are glued to the screen, looking for something to talk about, now that the usual conversational topics – rising taxes, the flu – are worn out.

The Guardian - Books

An attendant sits nearby, her eyes glued to the screen, waiting for something exciting to happen.

The New Yorker

Click "deliver it" to continue with the delivery process You can also specify "non-delivery task" in the delivery screen to ask for something different.

WikiHow

"If the majority wishes to claim that choice is a criterion, it must define choice in a way that can function as a criterion with a practical capacity to screen something out," Justice David H. Souter said for himself and the three others, Justices John Paul Stevens, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen G. Breyer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to screen for something", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being systematically tested or examined. For example, "The doctor will screen for high blood pressure during your annual checkup."

Common error

Avoid using "to screen for something" when a simple observation or one-time check is performed. Screening implies a systematic and often repeated process, not a casual glance or isolated test. For example, instead of saying "I screened for dirt on the floor", use "I checked the floor for dirt".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to screen for something" functions as an infinitive phrase acting as a purpose connector. According to Ludwig AI, it refers to a systematic process of testing or examination to identify something specific.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to screen for something" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies the systematic process of testing or examining to identify a specific condition, substance, or characteristic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and used across various contexts including news, science, and general information. While alternatives like "to test for something" or "to check for something" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that "screening" implies a systematic and often repeated process, distinguishing it from a one-time observation or check. This phrase is more frequent in neutral and somewhat formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to test for something

Emphasizes the act of testing or examining to discover or identify something.

to check for something

Focuses on inspecting or verifying the presence or condition of something.

to examine for something

Highlights a detailed inspection to uncover specific details or issues.

to investigate for something

Implies a more in-depth inquiry or research to find something.

to assess for something

Focuses on evaluating or determining the nature, ability, or quality of something.

to evaluate for something

Suggests a careful appraisal to form an opinion or judgment about something.

to scan for something

Implies a quick and broad search to detect the presence of something.

to search for something

Focuses on actively looking for something, often implying it may be hidden or difficult to find.

to monitor for something

Emphasizes ongoing observation to detect changes or the presence of something over time.

to look for something

A general term for seeking or trying to find something.

FAQs

How is "to screen for something" used in medical contexts?

In medicine, "to screen for something" refers to a systematic process of testing a population to identify individuals who may have a particular disease or condition. This is often done before symptoms appear, allowing for early intervention. For example, doctors "screen for cancer" through mammograms and colonoscopies.

What are some alternatives to "to screen for something"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to test for something", "to check for something", or "to examine for something". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "screening for" and "testing for" something?

While similar, "screening for" often implies a broader, population-based approach to identify potential issues, whereas "testing for" is generally more targeted, focusing on individuals with specific symptoms or risk factors. For example, a doctor might screen for diabetes in a general check-up, but specifically test for it if the patient shows symptoms.

Can "to screen for something" be used in non-medical contexts?

Yes, although it's most common in medical or security contexts, "to screen for something" can be used more broadly to describe a systematic process of looking for specific qualities or characteristics. For instance, a company might "screen applicants" for relevant skills and experience.