review
/ɹɪˈvjuː/
The word 'review' can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to look at something again, to examine or assess something, or to write a critical appraisal of a book, film, etc. As a noun, it refers to the act of reviewing, a critical appraisal, or a formal inspection (like a military review). In academic or professional contexts, 'review' often implies a thorough and critical examination. In more casual settings, it can simply mean to look over something quickly.
💬Casual Conversation
Did you ever get around to writing that glowing review for the new lawn guys?
Oh, shoot. I totally spaced. I'll operationalize that feedback loop tonight.
Collocations & Compounds
book review
an article or report that evaluates a book
She wrote a glowing book review for the local newspaper.
peer review
the evaluation of scientific, academic, or professional work by others working in the same field
The research paper is undergoing peer review before publication.
performance review
a formal assessment of an employee's job performance
His annual performance review highlighted areas for improvement.
movie review
a critical assessment of a film
I always read a movie review before deciding whether to watch it.
design review
a process of evaluating a design to identify and correct problems
The team held a design review to ensure all requirements were met.
Phrasal Verbs
review over
to examine or assess something again
Could you review over this report one more time before I submit it?
review back
to examine or assess something again, often with the implication of returning to it
Let's review back this section after we've discussed the other points.
Idioms & Sayings
a review of the troops
a ceremony where a commander inspects soldiers
The president conducted a review of the troops on the parade ground.
hold a review
to conduct a formal examination or assessment
The committee decided to hold a review of the company's policies.
Cultural Context
The Art of the Re-View: How Critical Appraisal Shapes Our World
The word 'review' itself hints at looking back, at a second glance. It's more than just a summary; it's an act of critical assessment, a process that has shaped human culture from ancient times to the digital age.
Think about the earliest forms of critical discourse. In ancient Greece, philosophers like Aristotle didn't just describe plays; they offered critiques, dissecting their structure, themes, and emotional impact. This laid the groundwork for literary criticism and, by extension, the very idea of a review. It was about more than just liking or disliking something; it was about understanding why.
Fast forward to the Enlightenment, where salons and coffee houses buzzed with intellectual debate. Reviews of books, art, and scientific discoveries were essential for disseminating knowledge and shaping public opinion. Journals and periodicals became crucial arbiters of taste and intellectual merit. A glowing review could launch an author's career, while a harsh one could stifle it.
In the 20th century, film and music reviews became a dominant force. Critics like Pauline Kael or Roger Ebert wielded immense influence, guiding audiences and providing insightful perspectives that often deepened the appreciation of a work. Their ability to review with both technical knowledge and relatable prose made them cultural gatekeepers.
Today, the digital revolution has democratized the review. From Amazon product reviews to Yelp restaurant critiques and Rotten Tomatoes movie scores, we are constantly bombarded with user-generated opinions. This has its own set of complexities, raising questions about authenticity, bias, and the very nature of expertise. Yet, at its core, the impulse remains the same: to look, to consider, and to share one's informed perspective. The act of a review, whether by a seasoned critic or an everyday user, is a fundamental part of how we navigate and understand the vast landscape of human creation.
Etymology
The word 'review' comes from the Old French 'reveoir' meaning 'to see again', which itself derives from the Latin 'revidere'. This Latin root is a compound of 're-' (again) and 'videre' (to see). The word entered Middle English around the 14th century, initially referring to the act of looking back at something or re-examining it. Over time, its meaning broadened to include critical assessment, such as a literary or military review, and later, a performance evaluation.