Legal Definitions - survey

Definition: A survey can refer to a general consideration or appraisal of something, or the measuring of a tract of land and its boundaries and contents. It can also be a poll or questionnaire that examines popular opinion.

• A survey of the situation was conducted to determine the best course of action.
• The lender required a survey of the property before issuing a loan.
• The government conducted a survey of the land to determine its boundaries.
• The radio station took a survey of the concert audience to see which songs were most popular.

The first three examples illustrate the first definition of survey, which refers to the appraisal or measuring of something. The fourth example illustrates the second definition, which refers to a poll or questionnaire that examines popular opinion.