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Synonyms

evaluation

American  
[ih-val-yoo-ey-shuhn] / ɪˌvæl yuˈeɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. an act or instance of evaluating or appraising.

  2. (especially in medicine) a diagnosis or diagnostic study of a physical or mental condition.


Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of evaluation

From the French word évaluation, dating back to 1745–55. See e- 1, valuation

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Explanation

An evaluation is an appraisal of something to determine its worth or fitness. For example, before you start an exercise program, get a medical evaluation, to make sure you're able to handle the activity. At the heart of the noun evaluation is the root word value, which means "worth." So an evaluation is an examination to find the worth of something. We do this every day — maybe making an evaluation of the prices in a store to decide whether or not to shop there. We might get an appraisal of our property, which is an evaluation to determine its worth in preparation for taking out a mortgage. Evaluation is vital in planning our lives.

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Vocabulary lists containing evaluation

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It is currently reviewing those inquiries, which could include the evaluation of a sale or merger, GoPro said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 11, 2026

The shortstop is scheduled to play two minor league rehabilitation games Oklahoma City Friday and Saturday, then return to Los Angeles for evaluation, with the hope he’ll be cleared for activation Monday.

From Los Angeles Times • May 8, 2026

But that evaluation is “for beyond the next several quarters,” a senior Treasury official said.

From Barron's • May 6, 2026

The agency first approved mifepristone in 2000, after evaluation of rigorous studies demonstrating its effectiveness and safety.

From Slate • May 4, 2026

He sat down behind his desk again and resolved to embark upon a mature and systematic evaluation of the entire military situation.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller