preliminary inspection

noun phrase

UK /prɪˈlɪmɪnəri ɪnˈspekʃən/

US /prɪˈlɪməneri ɪnˈspekʃən/

A first quick look to see if something is okay.

The teacher did a preliminary inspection of the classroom before the students came in.

SYNONYMS

initial check first look pre-check early review quick scan

RELATED WORDS

examination survey assessment evaluation checkup

OTHER MEANINGS

2. An early examination done before a more detailed one.

The engineer performed a preliminary inspection of the bridge before the full safety test.

3. A first check of a place or object to find any obvious problems.

After the storm, they made a preliminary inspection of the roof for damage.

4. An introductory review used to decide what to do next.

The preliminary inspection of the house helped the buyers decide whether to make an offer.