test
noun [ C ]
uk/test/ usa set of questions or practical activities that are used to measure what someone or something can do or how much someone knows about something:
The tests showed I had excellent spatial awareness.
do/sit/take a test We have to take a test to get a real-estate broker's license.
pass/fail a test New agents have to complete an online training course and pass a test.
an act of doing something in order to discover if something is safe, works correctly, etc., or if something is present:
pass/fail a test The minivans all failed the safety tests.
a test for sth The material passed rigid tests for flammability.
a test on sth The tests on the toys found that they had dangerously high lead levels.
If tests show infection, computer users can try anti-virus software.
a situation that shows how good, strong, etc. someone or something is:
The ultimate test of a successful negotiation is when the agreement reached is implemented to the satisfaction of both parties.
The true test of a CEO comes during difficult times.
put sb/sth to the test
to find out or show how good someone or something is:
This new project will really put her to the test.
See also
acid test ratio
alpha test
aptitude test
beta test
blind test
EQ test
field test
hall test
IQ test
market test
means test
psychological test
psychometric test
recognition test
test
verb
uk/test/ us [ T ]
to ask someone a set of questions or give them practical activities to do, in order to measure their knowledge or ability:
We will test your strength and stamina.
test sb on sth We will test new taxi drivers on how well they know their way around.
[ I or T ]
to do something in order to discover if something is safe, works correctly, etc., or if something is present:
We test every product numerous times before it ships.
The machine kept breaking down when I tested it.
test (sth) for sth The company is testing for gold in the deposits.
test sth on sth/sb The drugs were first tested on animals.
test negative/positive (for sth) He tested positive for the disease.
[ T ]
if a situation tests someone or something, it shows how good, strong, etc. they are:
The new chief executive will quickly get a chance to test his diplomatic skills.
Investors in British information technology stocks should prepare to have their nerve tested again.
See also
alpha test
beta-test