English Reference
Verb

scrutinize

v.
C1 Advanced US /ˈskɹutəˌnaɪz/ scru·ti·nize UK spelling scrutinise, scrutinized, scrutinizes, scrutinizing

v.to look at something very carefully to find small details or mistakes. You do this when you want to make sure everything is correct or safe.

v.to examine something very carefully and in detail, typically to detect flaws, errors, or hidden information. Transitive — requires a direct object.


SIMPLE

The police will scrutinize the security footage for any clues.

CONTEXTUAL

The committee will scrutinize the budget proposal to ensure every dollar is spent wisely.

COMPLEX

Under the intense glare of the media, the candidate's every word was scrutinized for any hint of inconsistency or political bias.

The findings of Dr Blake's review will be closely scrutinised.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

It’s a matter of procedure, a discussion “for internal use”, Hegarty assures her, in an opening exchange where every comment sparks suspicion and even the correct pronunciation of bourbon biscuit is scrutinised.

The Guardian· 15 Aug 2026

Common in culture writing


From scrutiny + -ize.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated