Meaning
Scrutinize means to examine something very carefully and thoroughly, often in a critical or detailed way. It suggests paying close attention to details, often to check accuracy, correctness, or authenticity.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Verb (transitive)
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Forms: scrutinizes, scrutinized, scrutinizing
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Usage pattern:
- scrutinize + noun (object)
- scrutinize something for (a reason/purpose)
Example structures:
- "to scrutinize documents"
- "to scrutinize someone’s behavior"
- "to scrutinize the evidence for errors"
Common Phrases
- scrutinize the details
- closely scrutinize
- scrutinize under a microscope (figuratively)
- scrutinize financial records
Collocations
- verbs + scrutinize: closely scrutinize, carefully scrutinize, thoroughly scrutinize
- nouns + scrutinize: scrutinize data, scrutinize reports, scrutinize contracts, scrutinize performance
- adverbs + scrutinize: carefully, minutely, intensely
Examples
- The teacher scrutinized the essay for grammatical mistakes.
- The customs officer scrutinized his passport before letting him through.
- Investors scrutinize financial statements before deciding to buy shares.
- She scrutinized his face to see if he was telling the truth.
- Scientists scrutinize data before publishing their results.
- The detective scrutinized the crime scene for hidden clues.
- The committee scrutinized the budget proposal line by line.
- His behavior was scrutinized by the media during the trial.
Synonyms or Related
- examine carefully
- inspect
- analyze
- investigate
- study closely
- review thoroughly