What does "scrutiny" mean?

1. (careful examination) a very close and careful look at something to check for problems or details. 2. (checking election votes) a formal check of votes in an election to make sure the count is correct.

How do you use "scrutiny"?

Often follows the prepositions 'under' or 'subject to'. In this sense, it is often a countable noun referring to the specific procedure.

scrutiny

US //ˈskɹutəni// UK //skɹˈuːtɪni// scru·ti·ny

1 careful examination (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal

a very close and careful look at something to check for problems or details.

the act of examining something closely and minutely, often to ensure it meets a specific standard or to detect errors.

Example

The company's financial records are under close scrutiny by the government.

Example

The proposed legislation came under intense public scrutiny after several independent analysts highlighted potential loopholes in the tax code.

Usage

Often follows the prepositions 'under' or 'subject to'.
- neglect
- disregard
2 checking election votes (n.)
C2 Proficiency Formal Technical Law

a formal check of votes in an election to make sure the count is correct.

a formal examination of the votes cast in an election, typically conducted by a committee to verify the accuracy of the poll.

Example

The candidate requested a scrutiny of the ballots after the results were announced.

Example

Following allegations of electoral fraud, the high court ordered a full scrutiny of the paper ballots in the disputed districts.

Usage

In this sense, it is often a countable noun referring to the specific procedure.
- audit
- recount

Origin

From Middle English scrutiny, from Medieval Latin scrūtinium (“a search, an inquiry”), from Vulgar Latin scrūtor (“to search or examine thoroughly”), from Late Latin scrūta (“rubbish, broken trash”), from an extension of Proto-Indo-European *(s)ker- (“to cut”).