review
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /rɪvjˈuː/
US
- /ˌrivˈju/
Description
- examine
- assess
- reconsider
A review is not just about movies or books. It is the act of looking at something again, often with a careful and critical eye. Think of a mechanic checking your car - they are not just taking a quick look; they are carefully examining it to see how it is working. You might review your notes before a test, or a boss might review an employee's performance. It can also mean going over something from the past: "Let's review what we discussed last week." A good review helps you understand things better and improve them. Sometimes, a review is written, like when someone shares an opinion about a new restaurant.
To review something means to examine or inspect it carefully, often to judge its quality, accuracy, or effectiveness. It is more than just looking; it involves careful thought and analysis. For example: "The editor will review the manuscript before it is published," meaning they will read it closely to check for errors and suggest improvements.
A review can also mean a formal assessment of performance, like an employee review where a manager discusses strengths and areas for growth. Or, you might conduct a self-review, reflecting on your own progress and accomplishments.
Beyond professional contexts, "review" can simply mean to recall or go over something in your mind. "Let's review the plan one last time before we begin." You can also write a review - a critical assessment of a book, movie, product, or service, often published for others to read. These written reviews offer opinions and recommendations.
Historically, "review" comes from the Old French word "revoir," meaning "to see again." This sense of looking back and re-examining is at the heart of its meaning today.
So whether you are checking a car engine, assessing an employee's work, going over past events, or sharing your opinion on a new film, to review is to look closely, think carefully, and reconsider with purpose.
Examples
- 1
Classroom recap
Let’s review what we learned in yesterday’s lesson.
- 2
Exam preparation
Before the exam, she reviewed her notes on the train.
- 3
Workplace report
The manager reviewed the report and asked for a few changes.
- 4
Medical results
Doctors are reviewing the test results now.
- 5
Application process
We’ll review your application and email you next week.
- 6
Travel planning
I always check online reviews before I book a hotel.
- 7
Restaurant opinion
Her review of the new restaurant made me want to try it.
Pattern
review of + thing
a report that gives an opinion about it
- 8
Official process
My visa application is still under review.
Phrase
under review
being officially considered
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- reviewnounverb
Forms
- reviewspluralnounverb
- reviewedpast tenseverbnoun
- reviewing-ing formverbnoun