self-examination

noun

self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion ˌself-ig-ˌza-mə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: a reflective examination (as of one's beliefs or motives) : introspection

2

: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease

Synonyms

• introspection
• self-contemplation
• self-observation
• self-questioning
• self-reflection
• self-scrutiny
• self-searching
• soul-searching

Examples of self-examination in a Sentence

many people use the dawning of a new year as an occasion for some quiet self-examination

Recent Examples on the Web

Hopefully, this conversation will be a wakeup call for your friend and prompt her to do some self-examination. —R. Eric Thomas, The Mercury News, 15 Nov. 2024

Exploration fosters self-examination under the Scorpio new moon. —USA TODAY, 1 Nov. 2024

While adult women may understand clearly the need for self-examination and regular mammograms, the Pink Jet’s striking hot magenta-and-bubblegum paint scheme connects with an equally important segment—girls in their elementary and preteen years. —Julie Boatman, Robb Report, 29 Oct. 2024

With Scorpio season in full force, this time of the year encourages us to do deep self-examination to face our shadow sides. —Kyle Thomas, People.com, 27 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

self-examination

noun

self-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion -ig-ˌzam-ə-ˈnā-shən 

variants or self-exam

-ig-ˈzam 

: examination of one's body especially for evidence of disease

regular self-examination for early detection of breast cancer