verb
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scrutinize
SKROO-tuh-nyz
Scrutinize (verb) means to examine something closely and critically, looking for detail, error or hidden meaning. Example: “Auditors scrutinised every transaction from the past three years.”
verb
1
To examine something closely and critically, looking for detail, error or hidden meaning.
"Auditors scrutinised every transaction from the past three years."
"She scrutinised his face for any sign that he was lying."
How to use scrutinize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLook at something very carefully to find problems or details.
When to use it
Neutral to formal; common in journalism, law, accounting and academic writing.
Memory tip
The subject is a person or body doing the checking; the thing checked comes under scrutiny.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
closely scrutinise
scrutinise the evidence
come under scrutiny
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Etymology
From Latin scrutari, meaning to search or examine, itself from scruta, meaning rubbish or old rags, from the idea of rummaging through them.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for scrutinize
See all rhymes for scrutinize →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between scrutinize and examine?
Examine is neutral and simply means to look at something carefully. Scrutinize adds intensity and suspicion: you scrutinize something because you expect to find a flaw, a mistake or something being concealed.
Is it scrutinize or scrutinise?
Both are correct. Scrutinize is standard in the United States and also accepted in Britain, while scrutinise is the usual British and Australian spelling.
What is the noun form of scrutinize?
Scrutiny, as in the contract came under scrutiny. Scrutinization exists but sounds clumsy and is rarely used.
What is the meaning of scrutinize?
"scrutinize" (verb) means to examine something closely and critically, looking for detail, error or hidden meaning.
