analysis
Definitions
The detailed examination of something by breaking it down into its parts to understand its structure or meaning
分析（把事物分解成各部分以理解其结构或含义的细致考察）
The separation of a substance into its components, especially in chemistry (e.g., chemical analysis)
（尤指化学中的）化验，分析（把物质分离为各成分）
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedana- (throughout, completely) + lysis (a loosening, from Greek lyein 'to loosen') = 'a complete loosening-apart.' Analysis is the act of untying a complex whole into its separate parts so each can be studied on its own. It is the natural opposite of synthesis (putting parts together).
Root lyse still carries 11 more wordsUsage Guide
- Plural is irregular: one analysis, two analyses (note the pronunciation shift: a-NAL-uh-sis → a-NAL-uh-seez).
- 'In the final analysis' is a fixed phrase meaning 'when everything is considered; ultimately.'
- Pairs naturally with its opposite synthesis in academic writing: analysis breaks down, synthesis builds up.
Example Sentences
- 1.
A careful analysis of the data revealed an unexpected trend.
- 2.
The lab sent the sample for chemical analysis.
- 3.
Her analysis of the poem focused on its hidden imagery.
- 4.
In the final analysis, the project's success came down to teamwork.
Synonym Comparison
- analysis — breaking a whole into parts to understand it (the technical, structured term)
- examination — a broad, careful inspection; less about decomposition
- study — sustained investigation over time, broader than one analysis
- evaluation — judging value or quality, not just describing structure
- synthesis — the opposite move: combining parts into a whole