Exam Definition Exam Definition 1

Exam (noun) — a formal test that people (commonly students) take to define their level of knowledge, get marks, and the reason they sometimes are awake at night.

Part of speech:
Noun (countable)
Phonetic transcription (IPA):
/ɪɡˈzæm/
CEFR level:
A1
Word frequency:

How to Pronounce “Exam”?

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Tips for “exam” pronunciation

Memorize a few tricks, like stressing the second syllable. The first one sounds like ig and the second rhymes with “jam.” 

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How to Use “Exam” in a Sentence?

The “exam” spelling is straightforward, while you need to learn how to use it in real sentences. It is used by all people, despite their profession and age.

I have a math exam. I will be studying all night and drinking energy drinks.
Sofie passed all her final exams! We will celebrate it with chicken and soda!
Did you see the schedule? They cancelled all exams.
No one knows what type of exam we have to take this semester.
Fred uses “study with me” videos to prepare for his exam.

What Are Synonyms for the Word “Exam”?

Since you can define the term now, it is time to check on alternatives, “exam” synonyms, and use it in formal and casual situations.

Related nouns: examination test quiz

Synonyms (contextual): final midterm paper

Common collocations: take an exam study for an exam final exam

“Exam” Word Formation and Description in Context

The purpose of learning new terms is to express yourself freely and sound interesting; that’s why you need to see how “exam” combines with other parts of speech.

With adjectives: difficult exam mock exam easy exam

With verbs: pass an exam cram for an exam

With nouns (noun + noun): exam paper exam period exam room

Idioms and Interesting Phrases with “Exam”

Beyond the “exam” definition you know, there are some phrases that can make your English rich owing to their unusual sounding.

  • Cram for an exam — intensive study session before a test.

    If you are good with time management, you will never cram for your exam.
Exam Idioma Exam Idioma 1
  • Pass an exam with flying colors — to succeed in taking a test.

    No wonder I passed an exam with flying colors. I studied for 4 hours every day.
  • Exam nerves — the feeling of anxiety before an exam.

    Do you know any tips to manage exam nerves? I can’t even sleep.

Test Your Knowledge of “Exam” Meaning

If you would like to check whether you truly mastered the term, we have three interactive exercises.

Type 1: True/false statements:
Choose the correct answer:
1
An exam is a formal test.
2
You can “take” or “sit” an exam, and both expressions are correct.
3
You can use “midterm” as an adjective to the word “exam.”
Type 2: Right Word Order
Put these chaotic words in order:
1
for
study
I
exam
must
the
tomorrow
2
passed
She
exam
her
3
nervous
are
We
before
exam
the
Type 3: Choose the correct option
Select the one closest in meaning:
1
What does “cram for an exam” mean?
2
Choose the right collocation (you saw it before).
3
Students take a final exam. Why is it called “final”?

Enjoy personalized learning!

“Exam” Word in Other Languages

Discovering how to spell “exam” across different cultures will make strong linguistic connections. Moreover, you will see how easy it is to actually learn them.

Language Word for “Exam”
Flag Spanish Spanish   Examen
Flag French French   Examen
Flag German German   Examen

Did You Know It? Fun Facts About “Exam”

It seems like such a simple word — and even a nervous one for some people — but when we look at the history behind what an “exam” means, it contains a few surprising moments.

  • The biggest number of attempts on a driving test is 950.

    The record was set by Cha Sa-soon from Jeonju, who eventually passed the theory exam required to obtain a driving license after hundreds of attempts.
  • Gaokao is considered one of the hardest exams in the world.

    China’s National College Entrance Exam, known as the Gaokao, determines university placement. Many students prepare for years and may study more than 14 hours a day to succeed.
  • The College Scholastic Ability Test (CSAT) causes a national lockdown.

    In South Korea, the CSAT is such an important event that flights are delayed, traffic is reduced and businesses adjust schedules — all to create optimal conditions for students taking the exam.

Famous Quotes Featuring “Exam”

Many thinkers and authors have their observations about exams put in books, so we will read some of the most famous of them.

“Personally, I was never more passionate about manga than when preparing for my college entrance exams…”

Hayao Miyazaki

Explanation: The author of this quote reveals a paradox: when you need to study, you always find more passionate things to do.

“I didn’t want to be in a bad mood in my history exam. Writing about the division of Germany for two hours was sad enough.:

— Alice Oseman

Explanation: It is a common student joke when you take an exam that covers hard, sad topics, and it is a good enough reason to be in a bad mood.

“…With diligent study and understanding, you will succeed in passing the exams.”

— Lailah Gifty Akita

Explanation: It is a simple and actionable tip for everyone who is afraid of failing a paper test, which stands for the fact that everyone has to be prepared.