scrutinize

especially British, scru·ti·nise

[skroot-n-ahyz]

verb (used with object)

scrutinized, scrutinizing 

1. to examine in detail with careful or critical attention.

   Synonyms: search, study, investigate

verb (used without object)

scrutinized, scrutinizing 

1. to conduct a scrutiny.

   Synonyms: search, study, investigate

scrutinize

/ ˈskruːtɪˌnaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to examine carefully or in minute detail

Other Word Forms

• scrutinization noun
• scrutinizer noun
• scrutinizingly adverb
• rescrutinize verb (used with object)
• self-scrutinized adjective
• self-scrutinizing adjective
• unscrutinized adjective
• unscrutinizing adjective
• unscrutinizingly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of scrutinize¹

First recorded in 1665–75; scrutin(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

Every detail was scrutinized, from the comfort of each chair to the texture of napkins.

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In the U.S., uncertainty around the Federal Reserve’s next interest-rate decision in December means markets will be scrutinizing data.

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And they must scrutinize their very definition of energy security in an age when physical oil shortages rarely materialize.

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A Homeland Security official, who asked for anonymity because they didn’t have permission to speak publicly, confirmed that HSI agents scrutinized the contents.

Read more on Salon

“Don’t forget to pack some shirts,” Ma orders, pacing like a scrutinizing coach.

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Related Words

• analyze 
• check 
• check out 
• comb 
• consider 
• dissect 
• explore 
• inspect 
• investigate 
• look over 
• peruse 
• pore over www.thesaurus.com
• probe 
• scan 
• sift 
• watch 
• weigh