Command Words and Their Meanings

Reviewed by Editorial Team
The ProProfs editorial team is comprised of experienced subject matter experts. They've collectively created over 10,000 quizzes and lessons, serving over 100 million users. Our team includes in-house content moderators and subject matter experts, as well as a global network of rigorously trained contributors. All adhere to our comprehensive editorial guidelines, ensuring the delivery of high-quality content.
Learn about Our Editorial Process
| By Themes
T
Themes
Community Contributor
Quizzes Created: 2709 | Total Attempts: 1,190,407
| Questions: 20 | Updated: Aug 22, 2026
Please wait...
Question 1 / 21
🏆 Rank #-- ▾
0 %
0/100
Score 0/100

1. Investigate closely, in detail: ____

Explanation

The phrase "Investigate closely, in detail" implies a thorough and careful analysis of a subject or situation. The word "examine" perfectly captures this notion, as it means to inspect or scrutinize something with great attention to detail. Both terms convey the idea of looking deeply into a matter to uncover facts, understand complexities, and draw conclusions. Thus, "examine" aligns seamlessly with the directive to investigate closely.

Submit
Please wait...
About This Quiz
Command Words and Their Meanings - Quiz

This quiz focuses on command words and their meanings, essential for understanding academic instructions. It evaluates skills in evaluating, analyzing, and discussing topics effectively. Mastering these terms is crucial for academic success, as they guide how to approach assignments and assessments.

2.

What first name or nickname would you like us to use?

You may optionally provide this to label your report, leaderboard, or certificate.

2. Support a case with evidence / argument — this command word requires you to give reasons backed by facts or logic: ____

Explanation

To "justify" a case means to provide valid reasons or arguments that support a particular stance or conclusion. This involves presenting evidence, such as data, examples, or logical reasoning, to demonstrate why a specific viewpoint is valid or necessary. Justification is essential in persuasive writing and discussions, as it helps to establish credibility and persuade others by showing that claims are not merely opinions but are grounded in factual information or sound logic.

Submit

3. Investigate closely, in detail — this command word asks you to look carefully and thoroughly at a subject or issue: ____

Explanation

To "investigate closely, in detail" implies a thorough analysis of a subject or issue, which aligns with the term "examine." Examining involves scrutinizing various aspects, gathering evidence, and understanding the intricacies of the topic. This process is essential for drawing informed conclusions and making well-supported arguments, emphasizing critical thinking and attention to detail.

Submit

4. Select and present the main points, without detail: ____

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

Submit

5. Apply knowledge and understanding to situations where there are a range of valid responses in order to make proposals: ____

Explanation

In situations where multiple valid responses exist, proposing a solution involves presenting ideas or recommendations based on knowledge and understanding of the context. "Suggest" implies offering a potential course of action or perspective while allowing for discussion and alternative viewpoints. This approach encourages collaborative decision-making and respects the diversity of opinions, making it suitable for complex scenarios where no single answer is definitive.

Submit

6. Express in clear terms: ____

Explanation

The term "state" can refer to a condition or situation at a particular time, such as emotional or physical states. It can also denote a political entity, like a country or region, characterized by governance and defined boundaries. In both contexts, "state" encapsulates the idea of a specific status or existence, whether it pertains to an individual's feelings or a collective organization of people. This duality makes "state" a versatile term applicable in various discussions, from personal experiences to geopolitical analyses.

Submit

7. Support a case with evidence / argument: ____

Explanation

To support a case effectively, one must provide justification, which involves presenting logical reasoning and evidence that validates a claim or argument. Justification is crucial in persuading others, as it demonstrates the rationale behind a position and reinforces its credibility. By articulating clear justifications, one can address counterarguments, enhance the strength of their case, and foster understanding among the audience. Thus, to convincingly advocate for a viewpoint, it is essential to justify the claims made with sound arguments and supporting data.

Submit

8. Name / select / recognise: ____

Explanation

The term "identify" aligns with the concept of naming, selecting, or recognizing something. When we identify, we determine what something is or recognize it from a set of options. This process involves distinguishing characteristics or attributes, which is essential in naming or selecting an item. Thus, "identify" encapsulates the essence of the actions described in the prompt.

Submit

9. Produce an answer from a given source or recall / memory: ____

Explanation

not-available-via-ai

Submit

10. Set out purposes or reasons / make the relationships between things clear / say why and / or how and support with relevant evidence: ____

Explanation

To explain means to clarify or make something understandable by outlining its purposes, reasons, or relationships. This involves detailing how and why things are connected, often supported by relevant evidence or examples. By providing explanations, one can enhance comprehension and facilitate learning, allowing others to grasp complex concepts or ideas more easily. This process is essential in education, communication, and problem-solving, as it fosters a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Submit

11. Judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of something: ____

Explanation

To evaluate means to assess or determine the significance, quality, or value of something. This process involves careful analysis and judgment, allowing one to make informed decisions based on the findings. By evaluating, individuals can understand the strengths and weaknesses of a subject, which is crucial in various fields such as education, finance, and research. The term encapsulates the essence of critical thinking and objective assessment, making it a fundamental skill in both personal and professional contexts.

Submit

12. Take forward to a more advanced stage or build upon given information: ____

Explanation

"Develop" means to advance or enhance something by adding new layers, ideas, or complexities. In the context of taking something forward to a more advanced stage, it involves nurturing initial concepts and transforming them into more sophisticated, refined forms. This process can apply to various fields, including technology, education, and personal growth, where foundational knowledge or skills are expanded upon to achieve greater outcomes or innovations.

Submit

13. Show how or give an example: ____

Explanation

The term "demonstrate" means to show or prove something through examples, evidence, or practical application. For instance, if you want to demonstrate how to bake a cake, you would go through the steps of mixing ingredients, pouring the batter into a pan, and placing it in the oven, allowing others to see the process in action. This helps others understand the concept more clearly by providing a tangible illustration of the idea being discussed.

Submit

14. Identify / comment on differences: ____

Explanation

The term "contrast" refers to the act of highlighting differences between two or more subjects. It involves a detailed examination of varying characteristics, qualities, or attributes, allowing for a clearer understanding of how they diverge. In this context, the instruction to "identify/comment on differences" aligns perfectly with the concept of contrast, as it encourages a focus on distinctions rather than similarities. This analytical approach is essential in various fields, including literature, art, and science, where understanding differences can lead to deeper insights and interpretations.

Submit

15. Review and respond to given information: ____

Explanation

The term "consider" implies a thoughtful evaluation or contemplation of information or circumstances. In the context of reviewing and responding to information, it emphasizes the importance of analyzing the details presented before forming a response. By considering the information, one can assess its relevance, implications, and how it aligns with their existing knowledge or beliefs, leading to a more informed and thoughtful reaction. This process is essential for effective communication and decision-making.

Submit

16. Identify / comment on similarities and/or differences: ____

Explanation

Both "identify" and "comment on" involve examining information, but they serve different purposes. "Identify" focuses on recognizing or pointing out specific elements, while "comment on" entails providing an opinion or interpretation about those elements. In contrast, "compare" specifically emphasizes analyzing the similarities and differences between two or more items, making it a more analytical process. Thus, while all terms involve assessment, "compare" distinctly highlights the relational aspect of the items being examined.

Submit

17. Make an informed judgement: ____

Explanation

To make an informed judgment means to carefully evaluate information and evidence before reaching a conclusion. The term "assess" directly relates to this process, as it involves analyzing data, weighing options, and considering various factors to form a reasoned decision. By assessing, one can determine the value, significance, or quality of something, ensuring that the judgment made is based on thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive reactions. Thus, "assess" encapsulates the essence of making informed judgments.

Submit

18. Write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way: ____

Explanation

In-depth discussions involve analyzing and exploring issues or topics comprehensively. This process typically includes presenting various perspectives, examining underlying causes, and evaluating potential consequences. Structured discussions often follow a clear framework: introducing the topic, outlining key points, providing evidence or examples, and concluding with a summary or call to action. Engaging in such discussions fosters critical thinking, encourages open dialogue, and promotes a deeper understanding of complex subjects. Ultimately, discussing issues in depth can lead to informed decision-making and collaborative problem-solving.

Submit

19. Examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements and the relationship between them: ____

Explanation

To "analyse" means to examine something in detail, breaking it down into its components to understand its meaning and the relationships between those elements. This process often involves identifying key features, patterns, or structures, allowing for a deeper comprehension of the subject. By dissecting the information, one can uncover insights and connections that may not be immediately apparent, facilitating a more thorough understanding of the topic at hand.

Submit

20. State the points of a topic / give characteristics and main features: ____

Explanation

To "describe" a topic involves providing detailed information about its characteristics and main features. This includes outlining essential points, explaining how they relate to each other, and offering examples when relevant. Describing helps to create a clearer understanding of the subject by painting a vivid picture of its attributes, functions, and significance, allowing the audience to grasp the topic comprehensively.

Submit
×
Saved
Thank you for your feedback!
View My Results
Cancel
  • All
    All (20)
  • Unanswered
    Unanswered ()
  • Answered
    Answered ()
Investigate closely, in detail: ____
Support a case with evidence / argument — this command word requires...
Investigate closely, in detail — this command word asks you to look...
Select and present the main points, without detail: ____
Apply knowledge and understanding to situations where there are a...
Express in clear terms: ____
Support a case with evidence / argument: ____
Name / select / recognise: ____
Produce an answer from a given source or recall / memory: ____
Set out purposes or reasons / make the relationships between things...
Judge or calculate the quality, importance, amount, or value of...
Take forward to a more advanced stage or build upon given information:...
Show how or give an example: ____
Identify / comment on differences: ____
Review and respond to given information: ____
Identify / comment on similarities and/or differences: ____
Make an informed judgement: ____
Write about issue(s) or topic(s) in depth in a structured way: ____
Examine in detail to show meaning, identify elements and the...
State the points of a topic / give characteristics and main features:...
play-Mute sad happy unanswered_answer up-hover down-hover success oval cancel Check box square blue
Alert!