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exam vs an exam

Both 'exam' and 'an exam' are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Exam' is used when referring to the general concept of an examination, while 'an exam' is used when referring to a specific examination. The choice between the two depends on whether you are talking about exams in general or a particular exam.

Last updated: March 28, 2024 • 3609 views

exam

This is correct when referring to the general concept of an examination.

Use 'exam' when talking about exams in general or as a shortened form of 'examination'.

Examples:

  • I have an exam tomorrow.
  • Exams are stressful.
  • She passed her exams with flying colors.
  • The final exam fish head incident.
  • Peter, the exam's tomorrow.
  • Fill the next step is the pastry exam.
  • The exam will include 4-5 open questions.
  • You failed your teachers' exam.
  • Hopefully passed the bar exam, practicing law.
  • But this is an oral exam.
  • Ms Long has your personalised exam timetables.
  • So she aced her neurological exam.
  • Swati's practical exam is more important.
  • Like screwing with your exam results.
  • Got an algebra exam next week.
  • Inspiratory crackles may be heard on exam.
  • Nurse, this woman needs a neuro exam.
  • Curtis has a maths exam this afternoon.
  • Congratulations on surviving your first exam.
  • Written final exam (open questions).
  • Oral exam with lab practice exercise test.
  • Complete course for Cambridge exam preparation: 12 weeks.
  • Two options are available to complete your pre-CIA exam requirements.

Alternatives:

  • examination
  • test
  • assessment
  • evaluation
  • quiz

an exam

This is correct when referring to a specific examination.

Use 'an exam' when talking about a particular examination or test.

Examples:

  • I have an exam in math on Friday.
  • She aced an exam in history last week.
  • He failed an exam in science.

Alternatives:

  • the exam
  • this exam
  • that exam
  • my exam
  • your exam

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