The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ANALYSES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
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More clues leading to the result ANALYSES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Examinations" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case examinations = analyses.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ANALYSES mean?
ANALYSES noun- Decomposition into components in order to study (a complex thing, concept, theory etc.).
- The result of such a process.
- The mathematical study of functions, sequences, series, limits, derivatives and integrals.
- Proof by deduction from known truths.
- The process of breaking down a substance into its constituent parts, or the result of this process.
- The analytical study of melodies, harmonies, sequences, repetitions, variations, quotations, juxtapositions, and surprises.
- Psychoanalysis.
- To subject to analysis.
- To resolve (anything complex) into its elements.
- To separate into the constituent parts, for the purpose of an examination of each separately.
- To examine in such a manner as to ascertain the elements or nature of the thing examined; as, to analyze a fossil substance, to analyze a sentence or a word, or to analyze an action to ascertain its morality.