self-examination

[ self-ig-zam-uh-ney-shuhn, self- ]

noun

1. examination into one's own state, conduct, motives, etc.
2. Medicine/Medical. examination of one's body for signs of illness or disease:

   breast self-examination.

self-examination

noun

1. scrutiny of one's own conduct, motives, desires, etc

Derived Forms

• ˌself-exˈamining, adjective

Other Words From

• self-ex·amin·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-examination¹

First recorded in 1640–50

Example Sentences

Ultimately, to point fingers at others is to evade self-examination about how we got here as a nation.

From Salon

Within that self-examination resides a broader parable about the belief’s power in fueling hope, that essential ingredient of survival.

From Salon

The issue is around the media’s absence of self-examination about its actions in 2016, and its lack of candid discussion around whether Clinton deserved similar caution.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s precious little time for self-examination of any kind.

From Salon

It is as close to self-examination as he comes, at least in front of the parole board.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• contemplation
• meditation
• reflection
• scrutiny
• soul-searching