Swabbing: meaning, definitions and examples

Swabbing is typically used in medical or forensic fields to describe the action of taking a sample using a swab (a small stick with cotton on the end).

• The nurse performed swabbing to test for the presence of the virus.
• Swabbing the crime scene can help gather DNA evidence.

Sampling is a term used in research and statistics to describe the process of selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population in order to make inferences.

• The sampling method used in this survey helps ensure the results are representative.
• Water quality testing involves careful sampling from different sources.

Collection is a general term used in various fields to describe the gathering of items, samples, or data.

• The scientist emphasized the importance of sample collection for the study.
• Garbage collection happens every Monday in our neighborhood.

Extraction refers to the process of removing something, usually with effort or skill. It is often used in scientific and medical contexts.

• The extraction of DNA from the sample was successful.
• The dentist scheduled an extraction of the impacted tooth.

Commonly used in medical or scientific contexts to describe the action of using a small piece of absorbent material to collect a sample or apply a substance, often for testing or cleaning a small area.

• The nurse is swabbing my arm before the injection.
• They were swabbing surfaces for bacterial samples.

Used in general contexts, indicating the act of cleaning or drying a surface by rubbing it with a cloth, tissue, or similar item. Can be less thorough than 'clean'.

• Please wipe the table after you're done eating.
• She wiped her hands on a towel after washing them.

Used in everyday situations to indicate the removal of dirt, dust, or mess from surfaces or objects.

• I need to clean the kitchen before our guests arrive.
• She cleaned her room thoroughly over the weekend.

Used in contexts where the goal is to remove or kill bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens to ensure sanitary conditions. Common in healthcare, food preparation, and areas where hygiene is critical.

• It's important to disinfect the countertop after preparing raw chicken.
• Hospitals regularly disinfect rooms to prevent the spread of infections.