入試

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 入試 (にゅうし) is a noun for an entrance examination or the admissions-exam process.
• Basic usage: It is used for studying toward entrance exams or feeling relieved after finishing one.
  • 入試に向けて毎朝単語を復習している。 — I review vocabulary every morning in preparation for entrance exams.
  • 兄は入試を終えてほっとした表情を見せた。 — My older brother looked relieved after finishing the admissions test.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Preparing and finishing
  • 入試に向けて presents the exam as the goal of preparation, while 入試を終える describes completing the entrance exam.