Evaluate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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evaluate

[ɪˈvæljʊˌeɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

performance

To evaluate means to assess or judge the value, quality, importance, or worth of something. It involves analyzing and forming an opinion about the characteristics of something based on specific criteria.

Synonyms

analyze, appraise, assess, judge, review.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
evaluate

Use this when you need to determine the value, significance, or condition of something after careful consideration and usually measurement.

  • The teacher will evaluate the students' projects at the end of the semester
assess

Generally used when determining the importance, size, or value of something, often for specific purposes like determining taxes, risks, or needs.

  • The insurance company will assess the damage to the car before issuing a payout
appraise

Suitable for situations where you need to estimate the value or quality of something, often in a formal or official capacity.

  • An expert was called in to appraise the value of the antique furniture
judge

This word can be used when forming an opinion or conclusion about something, often without detailed consideration. It can have a negative connotation if implying a baseless or prejudiced opinion.

  • It's not fair to judge someone based on their appearance alone
analyze

This word is best used when you need to examine something in detail to understand it better, often by breaking it down into its component parts.

  • The scientist will analyze the test results to understand the effects of the new drug
review

Best for situations where you need to examine something critically, often to improve it or to provide feedback.

  • The editor will review the manuscript for any grammatical errors or inconsistencies

Examples of usage

  • I need to evaluate the results of the experiment before drawing any conclusions.
  • The teacher will evaluate our presentations based on content, delivery, and creativity.
  • She asked me to evaluate her performance in the play and provide feedback.
  • We will evaluate the candidates based on their qualifications and experience.
  • Before making a decision, it's important to carefully evaluate all the options.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In scientific research, evaluations help determine the effectiveness of treatments in drug trials.
  • Environmental assessments evaluate the potential effects of projects on natural ecosystems.
  • Mathematics often requires evaluating expressions to find numerical values using specific principles.

Education

  • Teachers evaluate students' understanding through tests, projects, and discussions.
  • Peer evaluations give students a chance to assess each other's work, promoting collaborative learning.
  • Rubrics are often used as tools to evaluate assignments based on clear, defined criteria.

Literature

  • In literary critiques, evaluations discuss the strengths and weaknesses of a text, providing deeper insights.
  • Characters in novels often evaluate their choices and circumstances, leading to growth and transformation.
  • Book reviews aim to evaluate the content and style, helping readers choose their next read.

Pop Culture

  • Reality TV often features judges who evaluate contestants based on performance, creating tension and excitement.
  • Movie critics evaluate films, influencing public interest and box office success through their reviews.
  • Evaluation is a common theme in talent shows, where performers are judged for their skills and creativity.

Origin of 'evaluate'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'evaluate' comes from the Latin word 'valere,' which means 'to be worth'.
  • The prefix 'e' in 'evaluate' indicates 'out', so it can mean to bring out the value of something.
  • The word became popular in English in the 19th century, reflecting the rise of education and systematic assessment.

The word 'evaluate' originated from the Latin word 'evaluatus', which means 'to estimate the worth of'. It entered the English language in the mid-18th century. The concept of evaluation has been essential in various fields, including education, business, and research, to make informed decisions and improve processes.


See also: evaluably, evaluatable, evaluated, evaluating, evaluation, evaluations, evaluative, evaluatively, evaluator, reevaluation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,494, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.