What does review mean?
Review means to examine or assess something carefully, usually so that you can judge its quality, identify problems, or decide whether it should be approved or changed. As a noun, a review can be a critical assessment of a book, film, performance, or idea; it can also mean a formal reconsideration or inspection. Reviews appear in many professional settings, including peer review of academic work, performance reviews in employment, and reviews of plans or policies. The word can also refer to a periodical containing articles and commentary. In everyday use, “review” often combines the ideas of looking again and making a judgment. A critical review evaluates artistic or intellectual merit, while a general review may simply check accuracy, progress, or compliance. The word is common in both formal and informal British and American English.
A critical assessment, examination, or reconsideration of something, or a periodic publication containing articles and commentary.
"The film received a glowing review from critics."
In media contexts, it commonly denotes an evaluation of a work; in institutional contexts, it can mean an official examination or reconsideration.
To examine, assess, or reconsider something carefully.
"We will review the results before publishing them."
Often used in formal, professional, or administrative contexts, where examination is intended to improve, authorize, or make a decision.
The plural reviews refers to multiple assessments, examinations, reconsiderations, or issues of a review publication.
"The reviews were overwhelmingly positive."
A review can be a verdict, a second look, or a newspaper full of opinions—all from one word that began with the idea of looking again.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does review come from?
The word entered English in the late 16th century through French revue, meaning a review or inspection. French revue is historically associated with the idea of looking again and ultimately relates to Latin recurrere, “to return” or “go back.” Early English uses referred especially to military inspection and general examination, while later uses developed for literary criticism and periodic publications.
Related word forms
How review is actually used
In formal and administrative contexts, review often suggests an examination intended to improve, authorize, or reconsider something. In media contexts, it commonly refers to a critical evaluation of a work. The verb is widely used in British and American English.
Easily confused with review
A preview is a short advance showing what something will look or sound like, whereas a review is an assessment or reconsideration of an existing work or situation.