review
/ɹɪˈvjuː/
The word carries a dual energy: one is analytical and critical (judging quality), and the other is restorative or preparatory (checking for errors or studying). In professional or legal contexts, it suggests a structured, authoritative process. It isn't just 'looking at' something; it implies an evaluation that may lead to a verdict, a change in policy, or a correction. When applied to art or products, it shifts from a process of improvement to a public judgment. Here, the connotation depends entirely on the adjective used (e.g., "scathing" vs "rave"). In an educational context, it is less about judgment and more about reinforcement—revisiting known material to solidify it in memory.
Countable when referring to a specific written critique of a product or movie ('I read three reviews before buying the phone'). Uncountable when referring to the general act of formal examination or audit ('The policy is currently under review').
💬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.
Meanings
A formal assessment of something with the possibility or intention of instituting change if necessary.
"The company is conducting a full review of its safety procedures."
A critical appraisal of a book, movie, or performance published in a newspaper or magazine.
"The new novel received a glowing review from the New York Times."
To examine or assess something formally with a view to instituting changes if necessary.
"The committee will review the application process next month."
To look over or study again to memorize or improve understanding.
"Students should review their notes before the final exam."
To engage in a formal examination of a matter, often as part of a legal or administrative process.
"The case is currently being reviewed by the high court."
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.
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.