survey

word

/ˈsɝˌveɪ/, /sɝˈveɪ/
SUR-vay (noun), sur-VAY (verb)
/ˈsɜːˌveɪ/, /sɜːˈveɪ/
SUR-vay (noun), sur-VAY (verb)

Definition

A survey is a set of questions used to gather information or opinions from people, or a careful inspection of an area, especially land.

Usage & Nuances

Common as both noun and verb. Noun: 'take a survey', 'do a survey'. Verb: 'survey the land', 'survey customers'. For research, 'survey' usually means asking people questions, but in technical contexts (like construction), it means inspecting or measuring land.

Example Sentences

We filled out a survey about our favorite foods.

basic

The team did a survey of the park before building started.

basic

She answered all the questions in the survey honestly.

basic

Did you get a chance to complete the customer satisfaction survey?

natural

They’re running a quick survey at the front desk if you want to share your thoughts.

natural

The engineers will survey the property before any work begins.

natural