scrutinize
To examine someone or something very carefully and in great detail, often to find flaws or to gain a deep understanding. This verb implies a critical, systematic, and thorough inspection rather than a quick glance.
Examples
3 of 5She scrutinized the receipt to ensure she hadn't been overcharged for the groceries.
She looked very closely at the receipt to check for pricing errors.
The ethics committee will scrutinize the proposed research methods to ensure participant safety.
The committee will perform a detailed examination of the research plans for safety.
Don't scrutinize my hair so much; I know it's a mess today!
Do not look at my hair so closely; I am aware it looks bad.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'scrutiny-eye.' Imagine a giant magnifying glass held up to an eye, searching for the tiniest 'screws' or details in a mechanism.
Quick Quiz
The auditors were sent to _______ the company's accounts for any signs of fraud.
Correct!
The correct answer is: scrutinize
Examples
She scrutinized the receipt to ensure she hadn't been overcharged for the groceries.
everydayShe looked very closely at the receipt to check for pricing errors.
The ethics committee will scrutinize the proposed research methods to ensure participant safety.
formalThe committee will perform a detailed examination of the research plans for safety.
Don't scrutinize my hair so much; I know it's a mess today!
informalDo not look at my hair so closely; I am aware it looks bad.
Scholars continue to scrutinize the ancient manuscripts for clues about the lost civilization.
academicAcademics are carefully analyzing the old documents for historical information.
Potential investors will scrutinize the startup's cash flow before committing any capital.
businessInvestors will check the company's financial records very carefully before investing.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
scrutinize the fine print
to read the small, important details of a legal document
come under scrutiny
to become the object of careful examination
subject to scrutiny
to be in a position where one is being examined closely
Often Confused With
Scanning involves looking through something quickly to find specific information, while scrutinizing involves looking slowly and carefully at everything.
Usage Notes
Scrutinize is most commonly used in professional, legal, or academic contexts where high precision is required. It often carries a slightly negative or critical connotation, suggesting that the person looking is searching for a mistake.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'scrutinize on' or 'scrutinize about.' Remember that 'scrutinize' is a transitive verb and takes a direct object (e.g., 'scrutinize the report,' not 'scrutinize on the report').
Memory Tip
Think of a 'scrutiny-eye.' Imagine a giant magnifying glass held up to an eye, searching for the tiniest 'screws' or details in a mechanism.
Word Origin
From the Latin 'scrutari,' which means to search or examine, originally derived from 'scruta' meaning 'broken stuff' or 'trash' (implying searching through every little thing).
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In Western democratic societies, the term is frequently used in the media regarding the 'scrutiny' of government officials and their spending habits.
Quick Quiz
The auditors were sent to _______ the company's accounts for any signs of fraud.
Correct!
The correct answer is: scrutinize
Related Vocabulary
More academic words
hypothesis
C1A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation. It is a fundamental element of the scientific method, requiring empirical testing to be validated or refuted.
analyze
B2To examine something methodically and in detail, typically in order to explain and interpret it. It involves breaking a complex topic or substance into smaller parts to gain a better understanding of its internal structure and functions.
methodology
C1A methodology is a systematic and theoretical analysis of the methods applied to a field of study or an activity. it encompasses the body of methods, principles, and rules used by a discipline to solve problems or conduct research.
paradigm
C1A paradigm is a distinct set of concepts or thought patterns that form a theoretical framework or model within a specific field. It refers to a standard way of thinking or a typical example that serves as a template for others to follow.
phenomenon
B2A phenomenon is an observable fact or event, particularly one whose cause or explanation is in question. In academic and scientific contexts, it refers to any occurrence that can be perceived through the senses or measured and analyzed.
comprehensive
B2This adjective describes something that is complete and includes all or nearly all elements or aspects of something. It is used to indicate that a study, list, or report covers everything necessary without leaving out important details.
inherent
C1Inherent describes a quality or characteristic that exists as a natural, permanent, and inseparable part of something. It is used to indicate that a feature is built into the very essence of an object, person, or system rather than being added from the outside.
coherent
C1Describes a statement, argument, or piece of writing that is clear, logical, and consistently organized. It implies that all separate parts fit together perfectly to form a sensible and understandable whole.
nonetheless
B2Used to indicate that a statement is true or an action is occurring despite what has just been mentioned. It acts as a logical connector to show contrast or concession in a formal or academic argument.
undergo
B2To experience or be subjected to a process, change, or treatment, typically one that is unpleasant or necessary. It describes something that happens to a person or thing rather than an action they intentionally perform on others.
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