Analyze

/ˈænəˌlaɪz/ verb

Definition

To examine something carefully and systematically by breaking it down into its component parts to understand its structure or meaning. To study in detail.

Etymology

From Greek 'analyein' meaning 'to unloose' or 'to break up,' literally 'ana-' (up) + 'lyein' (to loosen). Entered English in the 16th century through mathematical and philosophical texts.

Kelly Says

Remember 'ANA-LYZE' as 'loosening up' the parts - like untying knots to see how they're made! Think of it as the opposite of 'synthesize' - you analyze to break apart, synthesize to put together.

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