Analysis is the process of examining a thing by identifying its constituent parts and describing the relationships between them. Contrast with synthesis.
As a verification method, analysis is the inference (by extrapolation, interpolation, logic, etc. using some algorithm) of the value(s) for some characteristic using validated models and engineering relationships. The method is applicable IFF the characteristic has a validated analytical relationship to other characteristics that are, in turn, verifiable by inspection, demonstration, or test (with which this definition should be contrasted).
See also simulation.