ENGLISH
REFERENCE

scrutinize

v.
C1 Advanced US //ˈskɹutəˌnaɪz// scru·ti·nize

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.

Synonyms
Origin

From scrutiny + -ize.

© 2026 English Reference