Dissect: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a scientific or educational context to describe the act of cutting open and examining the inside of an organism or object to study its structure.

• In biology class, we had to dissect a frog to learn about its anatomy.
• The scientists dissected the specimen to understand its internal structure.

Used informally to describe the act of cutting something into smaller pieces, often for preparation of food or simple separation of materials.

• Can you cut up the vegetables for the salad?
• She cut up the old shirt to use the fabric for a quilt.

Usually used to describe the process of taking something apart, especially machinery or complex objects, so they can be examined, repaired, or transported.

• He decided to disassemble the old computer to see if he could fix it.
• The toy was disassembled and laid out all the parts on the table.

A more general term that can be used in various contexts to describe the act of looking at something very carefully to learn more about it or to find out what is wrong.

• The doctor will examine you to figure out what might be causing the pain.
• She carefully examined the painting for any signs of damage.

Used when you want to thoroughly investigate or understand something by breaking it down into smaller parts. Common in biological, medical, or detailed analytical contexts.

• The professor dissected the frog to show its internal organs.
• We need to dissect the problem to find a solution.

Appropriate when you need to deeply study something to understand its components or underlying structure. Often used in scientific, academic or data contexts.

• The scientist analyzed the chemical composition of the substance.
• We need to analyze the market trends before launching the product.

Used when you want to inspect or study something carefully, often to understand its condition or details. Common in medical, legal, or general contexts.

• The doctor examined the patient thoroughly.
• We should examine all the evidence before making a decision.

Commonly used in informal or practical contexts to simplify complex information or tasks into more manageable parts.

• Let me break down the project for you so it's easier to manage.
• She broke down the math problem into smaller steps.