Survey: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when gathering information from a group of people, usually through a set of questions. Commonly applied in academic research, market research, and general data collection.

• The company conducted a survey to understand customer satisfaction.
• Students were asked to complete a survey about their online learning experience.

Often refers to collecting opinions or votes on a specific issue. Common in political contexts, opinion studies, and media reporting.

• The latest poll shows that the candidate is leading by a narrow margin.
• A quick online poll revealed that most people prefer summer over winter.

A specific tool used to gather data through a set of predetermined questions, typically in written form. Often used in research, evaluations, and feedback processes.

• Participants were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire about their travel habits.
• The health clinic used a questionnaire to assess patient satisfaction.

Refers to a detailed investigation or analysis of a subject. Used broadly in scientific research, academic work, and in-depth analyses.

• The recent study on climate change highlights the urgent need for action.
• The scientist published a study on the effects of sleep deprivation.

Use in situations where you are collecting opinions, feedback, or information from a group of people.

• We conducted a survey to find out customer satisfaction levels
• The survey showed that most employees are happy with the new policy

Use when you need to quantify or determine the size, amount, or degree of something.

• Accurate measurement of ingredients is key to a successful recipe
• The scientist took measurements of the sample's temperature

Use when you need to evaluate or appraise value, quality, or importance of something. Often used in academic or professional settings.

• The teacher's assessment of the student's project was very positive
• We performed a risk assessment before starting the project

Use when determining the monetary worth or market value of an asset or property. Commonly used in financial and real estate contexts.

• The bank provided a valuation of the property before approving the loan
• An expert conducted a valuation of the company's assets for the sale

Used to collect general data or opinions from a group of people. Often involves questionnaires or interviews and is common in fields like marketing, sociology, and public health.

• We conducted a survey to understand customer satisfaction levels.
• The government issued a survey to assess public opinion on new policies.

Used when looking at something closely to understand it better or to find details. Common in academic, scientific, and medical contexts.

• The doctor will examine the patient to diagnose the illness.
• Researchers examined the data to find patterns and trends.

Used when checking something carefully to ensure it meets standards or regulations, often associated with quality control and auditing. Can have a negative connotation if it implies finding faults.

• The building was inspected for safety hazards.
• Customs officials inspected the luggage for contraband items.

Used when investigating or traveling through an area or subject to learn more about it, often in a broad or open-ended manner. Common in adventure, research, and personal development contexts.

• They decided to explore the uncharted regions of the Amazon rainforest.
• Our goal is to explore new ways to enhance learning using technology.