scoping

American  

[skoh-ping] / ˈskoʊ pɪŋ /

noun

1. Slang. the act or practice of eyeing or examining, as in order to evaluate or appreciate.

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adjective

1. of or involving an investigation or discussion to determine the effect a proposed policy or project would have on a community or the local environment.

   The public is invited to the scoping meeting on the proposed new refinery.

Etymology

Origin of scoping

scope + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

The Treasury appeared to be scoping out the possibility of buying yen, which would raise the value of the Japanese currency against the U.S. dollar.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

Published under the title "Microplastics and Global Warming: A Hidden Climate Threat Uncovered in a New Perspective," the study provides a scoping review of existing research.

From Science Daily • Jan. 17, 2026

The MoD is scoping out 13 sites where it believes the new factories could be built and has named the areas of the UK where they are located.

From BBC • Nov. 18, 2025

It was suggested to him he was scoping the area out.

From BBC • May 10, 2025

“Yes, ma’am. I’ve been scoping out all the library lovers bunking at my motel. Looking for just one of ’em to help me do what needs to be done.

From "Mr. Lemoncello's Library Olympics" by Chris Grabenstein