Assay Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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assay
[əˈseɪ ]
Definitions
scientific research
An analysis of a substance to determine its composition, quality, or purity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| assay |
Typically used in scientific and technical fields to refer to a detailed investigation or testing, often to determine the properties, quality, or quantity of a substance.
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| analysis |
A broad term applicable in various contexts including science, finance, and daily tasks, referring to the detailed examination of the elements or structure of something.
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| examination |
Used in academic, medical, and formal settings to refer to a detailed inspection or assessment of something, often associated with evaluating knowledge, health, or condition.
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| test |
General term used in various contexts including education, medicine, and technology, referring to an assessment of knowledge, performance, or function.
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Examples of usage
- Chemists use assays to determine the concentration of a particular element in a sample.
- The assay of the drug revealed its active ingredients.
scientific research
To analyze a substance to determine its composition, quality, or purity.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| assay |
Used mostly in scientific and technical contexts to describe the process of determining the content or quality of a substance, often in chemistry or metallurgy.
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| analyze |
Generally used in broader contexts, especially in academics, business, and data analysis, to examine something in detail in order to understand it better or to draw conclusions.
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| test |
Used in various contexts to describe the process of trying out or measuring something to see how it works or to find out more information about it.
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| examine |
Commonly used in general and professional contexts to look at something carefully and thoroughly in order to understand it better or to detect problems.
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Examples of usage
- The researchers will assay the samples for any impurities.
- They will assay the soil for nutrient content.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In chemistry, 'assay' refers specifically to determining the composition or concentration of a substance in a mixture.
- Pharmaceutical companies perform assays to ensure their drugs have the right potency and purity before they are released.
- Environmental scientists conduct soil assays to assess contamination levels and inform cleanup strategies.
Pop Culture
- In the world of gaming, 'assay' can refer to testing an item to determine its properties or value, similar to crafting mechanics.
- Movies sometimes feature characters who assay valuable items, such as gold or jewels, to determine their worth for a heist.
History
- In medieval times, goldsmiths would assay metals to verify their purity and safeguard against fraud.
- The practice of assaying played a crucial role in the development of trade and currency, ensuring fair exchanges between merchants.
Literature
- Writers use 'assay' metaphorically in literature to describe attempts to explore human emotions or complex themes.
- In poetry, it can signify the poet's endeavor to delve into deeper meanings of life and existence.
Origin of 'assay'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'assay' comes from the Old French 'assayer', which means 'to try' or 'to attempt'.
- It was first used in English around the late 14th century, referring to the testing of metals.
- Related terms include 'essay', which also comes from the same root and means 'to try or attempt' in a different context.
The word 'assay' originated from Middle English 'assaien', from Old French 'assayer', 'to try', from Vulgar Latin 'exagiare', from 'ex-', meaning 'out', and 'agiare', 'to weigh'. The term was originally used in the context of testing the quality of metals by fire. Over time, it evolved to encompass the wider concept of analyzing substances for composition and purity.