audit
A systematic and independent examination of records, processes, or performance to ensure accuracy and compliance. While primarily a noun or verb, it functions as an adjective in professional contexts to describe things related to this official inspection process.
Examples
3 of 5I conducted a thorough audit of my pantry to clear out any expired items before the holidays.
I performed a detailed check of my food storage to remove old items.
The ministry has requested a comprehensive audit of the proposed environmental regulations.
The government department asked for a complete official review of the new nature rules.
Let's do a quick audit of our camping gear tonight so we don't forget the tent pegs tomorrow.
Let's check our camping equipment quickly tonight to make sure we have everything.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Audio'. In ancient times, financial accounts were read aloud to officials who 'heard' (Latin: audire) the results to verify them.
Quick Quiz
The board of directors reviewed the ______ findings to ensure the company met all safety regulations.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Examples
I conducted a thorough audit of my pantry to clear out any expired items before the holidays.
everydayI performed a detailed check of my food storage to remove old items.
The ministry has requested a comprehensive audit of the proposed environmental regulations.
formalThe government department asked for a complete official review of the new nature rules.
Let's do a quick audit of our camping gear tonight so we don't forget the tent pegs tomorrow.
informalLet's check our camping equipment quickly tonight to make sure we have everything.
The academic journal requires an audit of the data collection methods used in the sociolinguistic study.
academicThe scholarly publication needs a formal verification of how the research data was gathered.
The annual audit report revealed that the firm had maintained exemplary transparency in its offshore accounts.
businessThe yearly financial inspection document showed the company was very honest about its foreign money.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
subject to audit
liable to be officially inspected at any time
clean audit
an inspection that finds no errors or illegalities
audit committee
a group responsible for overseeing financial reporting
Often Confused With
An audition is a trial performance for an entertainer, whereas an audit is a systematic check of records.
Usage Notes
When used as an adjective (attributive noun), 'audit' describes nouns related to the inspection process, such as 'audit fees' or 'audit findings'. It implies a level of rigor and formality higher than a simple 'check' or 'list'.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'audit' for any simple checking of a list, but it should be reserved for systematic or official reviews. Do not confuse the word with 'auditory', which relates to the sense of hearing.
Memory Tip
Think of the word 'Audio'. In ancient times, financial accounts were read aloud to officials who 'heard' (Latin: audire) the results to verify them.
Word Origin
Derived from the Latin 'auditus', meaning 'a hearing', because accounts were originally presented orally.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In many Western cultures, a 'tax audit' is a common source of anxiety, representing a rigorous government scrutiny of personal or corporate finances.
Quick Quiz
The board of directors reviewed the ______ findings to ensure the company met all safety regulations.
Correct!
The correct answer is: a
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
ready
A2To be fully prepared for an action or an event. It describes a state where everything is set so that something can happen immediately without delay.
simple
A2Something that is easy to understand, do, or use because it is not complicated. It can also describe something that is plain and basic in style, without extra decoration.
physical
A2Relating to the body rather than the mind or feelings. It also describes things that exist in the real world and can be seen or touched.
general
A2Describing something that affects most people or things rather than being specific to one. It is also used to describe a broad understanding of a topic without focusing on small details.
environmental
A2Relating to the natural world of land, sea, air, plants, and animals. It is often used to describe things that involve protecting nature from damage caused by humans.
medical
A2Relating to the science of medicine and the treatment of injuries or diseases. It is used to describe things connected to doctors, nurses, and the healthcare system.
traditional
A2Following or belonging to the customs and beliefs that have been part of a group of people or a society for a long time. It describes practices that are done in the same way they have been done in the past rather than using new or modern methods.
private
A2Describes something that belongs to a specific person or group and is not for public use. It also refers to a place or conversation where others are not allowed to listen or watch.
difficult
A2Something that is hard to do, understand, or deal with because it requires a lot of effort or skill. It can also describe a person who is not easy to please or work with.
religious
A2Describes someone who has a strong belief in a god or a group of gods and follows the practices of a religion. It can also refer to things that are connected with or related to a particular religion.
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