survey

Universal Words noun, verb noun 1 an investigation of the opinions, behaviour, etc. of a particular group of people, which is usually done by asking them questions: A recent survey showed 75% of those questioned were in favour of the plan. * The survey found / revealed that... * to conduct / carry out a survey 2 the act of examining and recording the measurements, features, etc. of an area of land in order to make a map or plan of it: an aerial survey (= made by taking photographs from an aircraft) * a geological survey 3 (BrE) an examination of the condition of a house, etc., usually done for sb who is thinking of buying it: a detailed structural survey 4 a general study, view or description or sth: a comprehensive survey of modern music verb [VN] 1 to look carefully at the whole of sth, especially in order to get a general impression of it: The next morning we surveyed the damage caused by the fire. * He surveyed himself in the mirror before going out. * She opened her eyes and surveyed her surroundings. 2 to study and give a general description of sth: This chapter briefly surveys the current state of European politics. 3 to measure and record the features of an area of land, for example in order to make a map or in preparation for building 4 (BrE) to examine a building to make sure it is in good condition: Have the house surveyed before you decide whether to buy it. 5 to investigate the opinions or behaviour of a group of people by asking them a series of questions: We surveyed 500 smokers and found that over three quarters would like to give up. * 87% of the 1000 companies surveyed employ part-time staff.