noun
reconnaissance
rih-KAH-nih-suns/rɪˈkɑːnɪsns/
Preliminary observation or investigation to gather useful information.
We do some reconnaissance before choosing a campsite for the weekend.
Etymology
French reconnaissance meant recognition as well as surveying. The selected sense focuses on preliminary examination: learning about a place or position to obtain information useful for planning.
In context
green operations are those that are strictly conducted for reconnaissance purposes when the goal is to gather intelligence while avoiding detection
More examples
- The soldiers conduct reconnaissance to find a safe river crossing.
- A little online reconnaissance helps us compare local gyms.
- The engineers make a preliminary reconnaissance of the proposed construction site.
Forms
reconnaissance · reconnaissances
reconnoiter verb — To explore an area for useful information.
Similar words
- survey
- Often involves systematic examination or measurement rather than preliminary scouting.
- scouting
- Emphasizes exploring firsthand to locate opportunities, routes, or dangers.
- investigation
- Can involve detailed inquiry, not just preliminary information gathering.