Synonyms of dissect

dissect

verb

dī-ˈsekt 

as in to analyze

to identify and examine the basic elements or parts of (something) especially for discovering interrelationships

let's dissect the plot of this thriller to see what makes it thrilling

Synonyms & Similar Words

• analyze
• examine
• assess
• investigate
• diagnose
• evaluate
• cut
• deconstruct
• divide
• anatomize
• inspect
• scrutinize
• assay
• break down
• classify
• categorize
• tabulate
• codify
• subdivide
• arrange
• enumerate
• catalog
• index
• reduce
• order
• sort
• segment
• separate
• schematize
• catalogue
• diagram
• assort

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• integrate
• synthesize
• consolidate
• aggregate
• assimilate
• unify
• coalesce
• conglomerate
• amalgamate
• agglomerate

Synonym Chooser

How is the word dissect distinct from other similar verbs?

The words analyze and break down are common synonyms of dissect. While all three words mean "to divide a complex whole into its parts or elements," dissect suggests a searching analysis by laying bare parts or pieces for individual scrutiny.

commentators dissected every word of the speech

When might analyze be a better fit than dissect?

The words analyze and dissect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, analyze suggests separating or distinguishing the component parts of something (such as a substance, a process, a situation) so as to discover its true nature or inner relationships.

analyzed the collected data

When can break down be used instead of dissect?

The meanings of break down and dissect largely overlap; however, break down implies a reducing to simpler parts or divisions.

break down the budget

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of dissect

Such ebbs and flows in troops’ mental health can be difficult to dissect. —Anna Mulrine Grobe, The Christian Science Monitor, 28 Jan. 2025

Similarly, Perry Yung, who plays Rebecca’s estranged, gambling addicted father, also wanted to dissect how his character helped pave the way for the problems that his daughter faces throughout the film. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 26 Jan. 2025

Inside Inter Miami is back to dissect the exhibition triumph, highlighted by the game-winning penalty kick delivered by 17-year-old Santi Morales, the son of Inter Miami assistant coach Javier Morales. —Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 22 Jan. 2025

The Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast suggests and dissects the buzziest new movies, TV, music, books, videogames and more, five days a week. —Manuela López Restrepo, NPR, 22 Jan. 2025