TEST

[verb]Will you test me on (= ask me questions to see if I know) the chemical formulae I've been learning? [T]This machine is designed for testing people's hearing (= finding out if there is anything wrong with it). [T]We test the equipment for accuracy (= make certain that it is working correctly) every Friday morning. [T]The manufacturers are currently testing the new engine (= making certain that it is working effectively). [T]They started testing (= searching) for oil. [I]To test someone or something can also be to present them with a situation which shows how good they are at dealing with difficulties.That lecture really tested my powers of endurance, it was so boring.To test something, esp. a theory or an idea, out is to find out how it works in a practical situation or how people react to it.The students tested out their cost-cutting ideas in several companies.I find it valuable to test my writing out on someone else before it is published.To test the water(s) is to find out what people's opinions of something are before you ask them to do something or try and sell them something.We put an advertisement about a nursery school in the paper to test the water.