Inspector

Definition

An official employed to ensure that official regulations are obeyed, or who investigates any matter on behalf of a regulatory authority.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈspɛktər/
• Respelling: in-SPEK-ter (with "in" as in "tin," "SPEK" as in "speck," and "ter" as in "her")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈspɛktə/
• Respelling: in-SPEK-tuh (with "in" as in "tin," "SPEK" as in "speck," and "tuh" as in "sofa")

In both dialects, "inspector" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "SPEK." The American pronunciation includes "ter," while the British pronunciation includes "tuh," focusing on the clear articulation of "in-SPEK-ter" (American) and "in-SPEK-tuh" (British).

Etymology

The word "inspector" stems from the Latin verb 'inspectare', which is the frequentative form of 'inspicere', meaning 'to look into' or 'to observe'. It combines the prefix 'in-' (into) with 'specere' (to look). "Inspector" implies someone who carries out the act of inspecting.

Derivatives

• Inspection (noun)
• Inspect (verb)
• Inspecting (verb, present participle)
• Inspectorate (noun)
• Inspectorial (adjective)

Synonyms

• Examiner
• Investigator
• Supervisor

Antonyms

• None applicable.

Usage

"Inspector" is commonly used in contexts involving law enforcement, quality control, and regulatory compliance, where individuals are tasked with ensuring adherence to standards and regulations.

Related Terms

• Oversight
• Review
• Audit
• Inquiry
• Probe

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Inspector (Noun, General): A person who examines something to ensure compliance with rules, regulations, or standards.
  • Example: "The building inspector checked the construction site for safety violations."

• Inspector (Noun, Law Enforcement): A rank in police or law enforcement agencies, responsible for overseeing investigations and operations.
  • Example: "The inspector led the investigation into the high-profile case."

• Inspector (Noun, Education): An official who visits schools to evaluate the quality of education and ensure adherence to educational standards.
  • Example: "The school inspector praised the teachers for their innovative teaching methods."

Note: An inspector usually has a specialized field or area of expertise in which they conduct their inspections. Their primary role is to uphold and ensure the maintenance of specific standards or regulations within their jurisdiction.