to test whether

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to test whether" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a process of determining the truth or accuracy of something. For example, "We need to test whether this new plan is feasible before we move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To test whether the two species (C.

Nature

"The market is going to test whether we are committed".

The New York Times

To test whether lipoxin A4 (LXA4) deficiency results in preeclampsia.

Fertility and Sterility

Ecker's goal was to test whether the degree of the slant would matter.

The New Yorker

Fifteen minutes is a minimum to test whether the car will suit you.

The New York Times

The police said blood samples had been taken to test whether Simon had been drinking.

The New York Times - Sports

But there is no way to test whether energy drinks help improve performance, he said.

The New York Times - Health

All three states provide an opportunity to test whether the model can work for rural women.

The Guardian

To test whether it's hot enough, gently touch one of the potatoes to the fat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This is to test whether you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

University of California, Berkeley

balances to test whether rotating masses imparted a "dragging" force through space on nearby masses.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to test whether", ensure that the subsequent clause clearly states the condition or hypothesis being evaluated. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to test whether" when simply stating a fact or making an assertion. This phrase implies a process of investigation, not a declaration. Instead, use direct statements when you are not describing an evaluation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to test whether" functions as an introductory phrase indicating the purpose of an action, typically an experiment or investigation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it sets up a condition or hypothesis to be evaluated. Examples in the search results illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

48%

News & Media

29%

Academia

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to test whether" is a common and grammatically correct construction used to introduce the purpose of an investigation or experiment. Ludwig AI validates its appropriate usage across various contexts, particularly in science, news, and academia. It is important to use this phrase when describing a process of evaluation rather than making a direct assertion. Alternatives like "to determine if" or "to investigate if" can be used depending on the desired level of formality and depth of inquiry. By understanding its function and appropriate contexts, writers can effectively use "to test whether" to convey the objectives of their research or analysis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to determine if

Replaces "test" with "determine", focusing on the outcome of the verification process, is more formal.

to verify if

Emphasizes the act of confirming the truth or accuracy of something.

to investigate if

Substitutes "test" with "investigate", implying a more in-depth examination.

to examine if

Implies a detailed inspection to discover or understand something.

to evaluate whether

Focuses on assessing the value or quality of something under specific conditions.

to check if

Uses "check" instead of "test", suggesting a simpler, less rigorous verification.

to analyze if

Focuses on a systematic analysis to understand a condition or result.

to explore whether

Suggests an open-ended inquiry to understand potential outcomes.

to see whether

Replaces "test" with "see", making the phrase more casual and exploratory.

to ascertain whether

Uses "ascertain" instead of "test", indicating a desire to establish something definitively.

FAQs

How can I use "to test whether" in a sentence?

Use "to test whether" when you want to describe the purpose of an experiment, study, or observation. For instance, "We conducted a study to test whether the new drug was effective".

What are some alternatives to "to test whether"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to determine if", "to investigate if", or "to check if".

Is it correct to say "to test that" instead of "to test whether"?

While "to test that" might be used in some contexts, "to test whether" is generally preferred when you are presenting two or more alternatives or conditions. "To test that" is better suited when you're confirming a single, specific hypothesis.

What is the difference between "to examine whether" and "to test whether"?

"To examine whether" and "to test whether" are often interchangeable, but "examine" implies a more detailed and thorough investigation, while "test" suggests a more specific evaluation under controlled conditions.