To examine means to look at something carefully and closely to understand it better or find out important information. When a doctor examines a patient, she checks for signs of illness by listening to the heart, looking in the throat, and asking questions about symptoms. When a detective examines evidence at a crime scene, he studies every detail that might reveal what happened.

Examining requires focus and attention to detail. A scientist examines cells under a microscope, searching for patterns others might miss. A jeweler examines a diamond with a special magnifying glass to check for flaws. When your teacher says to examine the evidence in a history document, she wants you to read it thoughtfully, question what it means, and consider what it tells you about the past.

You can examine physical objects, like when a mechanic examines an engine to find out what's broken. You can also examine ideas: a student might examine different solutions to a math problem, or a jury examines the facts of a case before making a decision.