Definition of: analysis

(ə·nal′ə·sis) noun plural ·ses (-sēz)
1. The resolution of a whole into its parts or elements: opposed to synthesis.
2. A statement of the results of this; logical synopsis.
3. A method of determining or describing the nature of a thing by resolving it into its parts: to study literature by the analysis of texts.
4. Math. a The process of resolving a problem into its first elements, b The investigation of the relations of variable or indeterminate quantities by means of symbols, including some branches of algebra and the differential and integral calculus.
5. Chem. a The identification of constituents of a compound, solution, mixture, or the like. See qualitative analysis, b The determination of the quantity or proportion of such constituents. See quantitative analysis, c A statement of the results of an analysis.
6. Psychoanalysis. See synonyms under ABRIDGMENT. Compare SYNTHESIS. [<Med.L <Gk. analysis <ana- throughout + lysis a loosing <lyein to loose]