exam
gb/ɪɡzˈæm/ us/ɪɡzˈæm/
A2
English
~ 4000
vizsga
NOUN
A2
1
vizsga
A2
Usage pattern:
to take [an exam]
She studied all weekend for her math exam.
I have to take my driving exam next month.
The final exam will cover all the topics from this semester.
He failed the chemistry exam and must retake it.
The teacher handed out the exam papers at 9 a.m.
Learner examples
I have an English exam tomorrow.
He passed his driving exam.
We are studying for the history exam.
The exam starts at ten o’clock.
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'exam' with 'exercise'. An 'exam' is a formal test, while an 'exercise' is a practice activity.
Meaning
A formal test of knowledge
Collocations
take an exam
|pass an exam
|fail an exam
|sit an exam
|prepare for an exam
Synonyms
test (The most common general synonym; 'exam' is often more formal or used for important tests.)
|
assessment (More formal and broader, can include non-test evaluations.)
Antonyms
practice (Opposite in the sense that practice is preparation without formal evaluation.)
Themes
education
|work
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Definition
A test you take to show what you know or can do, often in school or for a job.
A formal test of a person's knowledge, skill, or ability, usually in writing, often given at school, university, or for professional purposes.
Grammar
Dictionary form
exam
IPA
GB/ɪɡzˈæm/
US/ɪɡzˈæm/
Syllables & stress
ex - am (2 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (am)
Word forms
Noun
- Base: exam
- Plural: exams
Word family
Expressions
fail an exam
1/fˈeɪl ən ɪɡzˈæm/
fixed phrase
Be unsuccessful in a formal test
To get too low a score on a test and not be successful.
Examples
- She failed her driving exam twice before passing.
- Failing the exam means you have to take it again.
pass an exam
1/pˈæs ən ɪɡzˈæm/
fixed phrase
Succeed in a formal test
To get a good enough score on a test so you are successful.
Examples
- He passed the entrance exam with high marks.
- If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
prepare for an exam
1/pɹipˈɛɹ fɚ ən ɪɡzˈæm/
fixed phrase
Get ready for a formal test
To study or practice so you are ready for a test.
Examples
- She is preparing for her medical licensing exam.
- We spent weeks preparing for the final exams.
sit an exam
1/sˈɪt ən ɪɡzˈæm/
fixed phrase
formal
Take part in a formal written test
To take a written test, often used in British English.
Examples
- Students will sit their final exams in June.
- I sat my first university exam last year.
take an exam
1/tˈeɪk ən ɪɡzˈæm/
fixed phrase
Participate in a formal test
To do an official test to show what you know or can do.
Examples
- I have to take an exam in biology next week.
- She took her final exams before the summer break.