Exploring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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exploring

[ษชkหˆsplษ”หrษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

science

To travel through (an unfamiliar area) in order to learn about it or familiarize oneself with it.

Synonyms

discover, investigate, survey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
investigate

Used when you examine or study something thoroughly to uncover facts, often in a formal or systematic manner. This word may have a serious or formal tone.

  • The police need more time to investigate the crime scene.
  • The committee will investigate the cause of the collapse.
discover

Used when you find something unknown or hidden that becomes known, often highlighting the element of surprise or revelation.

  • Scientists hope to discover new treatments for rare diseases.
  • She was thrilled to discover a rare vintage book in the old library.
survey

Used when you look at or examine all parts of something carefully, often to gather information or make a general assessment.

  • The biologists surveyed the marine life in the coral reef.
  • The company plans to survey customers about their new product.

Examples of usage

  • Exploring new galaxies is a common theme in science fiction.
  • The researchers spent years exploring the depths of the ocean.
  • She enjoys exploring new cultures while traveling.
Context #2 | Verb

technology

To search for and discover more information about a particular subject or area, especially on the internet.

Synonyms

browse, check out, research.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exploring

Use this word when actively investigating or discovering new places, ideas, or concepts, often with a sense of adventure or curiosity.

  • They spent the weekend exploring the old castle ruins.
  • She enjoys exploring new cuisines from around the world.
browse

This word is appropriate when casually looking through items or information without a specific goal or intention. Often used in the context of shopping, reading, or surfing the internet.

  • He spent the afternoon browsing through the bookstore.
  • She likes to browse fashion websites in her free time.
research

Best used when conducting a systematic and detailed investigation to discover or establish facts. This term is often associated with academic or scientific studies.

  • She is conducting research on climate change impacts.
  • He spent years researching the history of the ancient civilization.
check out

Used when inspecting or looking at something to get information, often in a more focused manner than browsing. It can also imply visiting a place to see what itโ€™s like.

  • Let's check out that new restaurant downtown.
  • Make sure to check out the details before making a decision.

Examples of usage

  • He spent hours exploring the internet for information on renewable energy.
  • She enjoys exploring different websites to find inspiration for her art.
Context #3 | Noun

general

The action of exploring an unfamiliar area or subject.

Synonyms

discovery, investigation, survey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
exploring

Used when talking about traveling or examining something new, often with a sense of adventure or curiosity.

  • We spent the weekend exploring the forest.
  • She loves exploring new cities in her free time.
investigation

Used in formal contexts where a thorough and systematic examination is conducted, often related to law enforcement, research, or journalism.

  • The police launched an investigation into the crime.
  • The investigation revealed several key pieces of evidence.
discovery

Typically used when referring to finding something new or learning something previously unknown, often in a scientific or historical context.

  • The discovery of penicillin revolutionized medicine.
  • Their discovery of ancient ruins was a significant contribution to archaeology.
survey

Used when collecting data from a group of people or examining an area, often used in research, statistics, and questionnaires.

  • We conducted a survey to gather opinions on the new policy.
  • The survey of the land was necessary before construction could begin.

Examples of usage

  • Exploring is an essential part of human nature.
  • The children's book encouraged a spirit of exploration and discovery.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Exploration is key in various fields, including biology, where scientists explore ecosystems to understand biodiversity.
  • Space exploration has expanded our knowledge of the universe and led to significant technological advancements.
  • In medicine, exploring new treatments through research helps find better health solutions.

Literature

  • Many famous explorers, like Marco Polo and Vasco da Gama, inspired adventure narratives in literature.
  • Exploratory themes are prevalent in novels, where characters often embark on journeys of self-discovery.
  • Poetry also often reflects the spirit of exploring by questioning the known and unknown.

History

  • The Age of Exploration in the 15th-17th centuries led to the discovery of new lands and changed world trade.
  • Explorers like Christopher Columbus and Ferdinand Magellan significantly influenced the maps we use today.
  • This historical period was marked by the desire to find new trade routes and expand empires.

Psychology

  • Exploring new ideas and experiences is vital for personal development and mental growth.
  • Curiosity, a desire to explore, can lead to greater engagement with the world and increased happiness.
  • Research shows that individuals who actively seek new experiences often exhibit higher creativity.

Origin of 'exploring'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'explorare', meaning 'to investigate' or 'to search out'.
  • In its early use around the 15th century, it was more associated with physical journeys rather than ideas.
  • The meaning extended through time to include mental and philosophical exploration.

The word 'exploring' originates from the Middle English word 'esploracioun', which came from the Old French 'esploracion'. The concept of exploring has been deeply ingrained in human history, from early explorers discovering new lands to modern scientists exploring the depths of the universe. The urge to explore and discover is a fundamental aspect of human nature, driving progress and innovation throughout the ages.


See also: exploration, explorations, exploratory, explore, explorer, explorers, explores, unexplored.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,008 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.