Surveying: meaning, definitions and examples

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surveying

 

[ sərˈveɪɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

land measurement

Surveying is the process of determining the relative positions of points on the Earth's surface. It involves measuring distances, angles, and elevations to create maps and establish property boundaries.

Synonyms

land measuring, mapping, topography.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
surveying

Used primarily in the context of professional practices to determine the boundaries, topography, and features of land.

  • The company hired experts for surveying the new construction site.
  • Surveying requires precise instruments and skilled personnel.
mapping

Usually associated with creating a visual representation of an area, including roads, buildings, and other features.

  • Mapping the area was essential for the new road plans.
  • Advanced software is now used for digital mapping of cities.
land measuring

Often used in a more general or casual context to refer to measuring the dimensions of a piece of land.

  • We spent the afternoon land measuring our property boundaries.
  • Land measuring is important before starting any fence construction.
topography

Relates specifically to the detailed description or representation of the physical features of an area, such as its hills, valleys, and other terrain features.

  • The topography of the region includes rolling hills and deep valleys.
  • Understanding the topography is crucial for planning hiking routes.

Examples of usage

  • Surveying is essential for construction projects.
  • The accuracy of surveying is crucial for urban planning.
  • Surveying helps to prevent land disputes.
  • Surveying techniques have evolved with technology.
  • Professional surveyors use specialized equipment.
Context #2 | Verb

examining and recording

To survey means to examine and record information about a particular area, group, or situation. It involves collecting data, analyzing results, and presenting findings.

Synonyms

analyze, assess, inspect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
surveying

Used primarily in the context of measuring and mapping land or gathering information about a large area or group.

  • They spent the afternoon surveying the property to determine its boundaries.
  • The researchers are currently surveying the opinions of the local population on the new policy.
analyze

Used when examining something in detail to understand it better or to draw conclusions from data.

  • The scientist will analyze the samples to check for any contaminants.
  • We need to analyze these sales figures to see why our profits have dipped.
inspect

Used when carefully examining something, typically for faults, errors, or compliance with regulations.

  • The health inspector will inspect the restaurant next week.
  • The mechanic inspected the car for potential issues before giving a quote.
assess

Used when evaluating the value, significance, or extent of something.

  • The teacher will assess the students’ projects at the end of the term.
  • We need to assess the damage caused by the storm before filing an insurance claim.

Examples of usage

  • The researchers surveyed public opinion on the matter.
  • The company surveyed customer satisfaction levels.
  • The government surveyed the impact of the new policy.
  • They surveyed the wildlife in the national park.
  • She surveyed the damage caused by the storm.

Translations

Translations of the word "surveying" in other languages:

🇵🇹 topografia

🇮🇳 सर्वेक्षण

🇩🇪 Vermessung

🇮🇩 pemetaan

🇺🇦 геодезія

🇵🇱 geodezja

🇯🇵 測量 (sokuryō)

🇫🇷 arpentage

🇪🇸 agrimensura

🇹🇷 ölçme

🇰🇷 측량 (cheuglyang)

🇸🇦 مسح (masḥ)

🇨🇿 geodézie

🇸🇰 geodézia

🇨🇳 测量 (cèliáng)

🇸🇮 geodezija

🇮🇸 landmælingar

🇰🇿 геодезия

🇬🇪 გეოდეზია (geodezia)

🇦🇿 geodeziya

🇲🇽 agrimensura

Etymology

The term 'surveying' originated from the Middle English word 'surveien,' which came from the Old French word 'surveier,' meaning 'to view from above.' The practice of surveying has ancient roots, dating back to the Egyptians and Babylonians. Over time, surveying techniques have evolved significantly, incorporating advanced technology such as GPS and drones.

See also: surveillance, surveyor.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,580 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.