Synonym Chooser

How is the word examine different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of examine are inspect, scan, and scrutinize. While all these words mean "to look at or over," examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing.

examined the specimens

When would inspect be a good substitute for examine?

The words inspect and examine can be used in similar contexts, but inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects.

inspected my credentials

In what contexts can scan take the place of examine?

The meanings of scan and examine largely overlap; however, scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation.

scanned the wine list

When is scrutinize a more appropriate choice than examine?

Although the words scrutinize and examine have much in common, scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail.

scrutinized the hospital bill

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of examine After examining 13 million hours of light exposure data, researchers found that experiencing bright light during the dark hours can significantly increase the risk of heart failure and heart attack. New Atlas, 24 Oct. 2025 The film examines the exhilarating and uncanny experience of meeting a blood brother for the first time in adulthood. Zac Ntim, Deadline, 23 Oct. 2025 When examining this piece and considering its phrase at the bottom, viewers may ask themselves who in this image is the disciple and who is the master. Mario Rodriguez, Miami Herald, 23 Oct. 2025 This plan has been thoughtfully created by examining the structures and elements that truly make Country Club Plaza unique and special. Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for examine
Recent Examples of Synonyms for examine
Verb
  • Police were interrogating Smith at the same time.
    Omar Jimenez, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2025
  • For Findikoglu, whose designs interrogate traditional modes of femininity and unspools them into powerfully sensually looks, hair acts as armor and invitation into her gothic underworld.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • As the fireline is constructed, inspected or reinforced, mappers record those details to adjust the containment percentage.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Facilities are inspected regularly, and employees receive ongoing training on hygiene, traceability, and handling procedures.
    William Jones, Freep.com, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • This interplay between exploration and espionage continues today, even when the surface of the world has been almost completely explored.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2025
  • This is a wake-up call to venture beyond your comfort zone and explore what truly excites your mind again.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Julie Mayhew, owner of Mayville Farm, a small farm sanctuary in Racine, said she's publicly questioned Shalom for years.
    Quinn Clark, jsonline.com, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Bessent was questioned by Democrats and some Republicans for his support, in the context of Argentina being a competitor to the US in exporting soybeans to China.
    Daniel Flatley, Fortune, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The Fechters, Shalom’s owners, said their selective breeding program preserves genetic diversity by pairing up non-related animals, whose health and genetics are reviewed by veterinarians and experts.
    Quinn Clark, jsonline.com, 27 Oct. 2025
  • The comments were picked up by South Korea’s Chosun Ilbo newspaper, and CNN asked the two former US Navy officers to review that report and the video.
    Brad Lendon, CNN Money, 26 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • These anthropological detectives of sorts are charged with quietly monitoring, researching and investigating the supernatural entities that make up the Immortal Universe.
    Abbey White, HollywoodReporter, 27 Oct. 2025
  • Valak first appears in The Conjuring 2, when the Warrens are in England, investigating the Enfield poltergeist — the case of a young girl allegedly experiencing a supernatural force taking over her body.
    Julie Tremaine, PEOPLE, 27 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • This can enable them to scan packages, follow turn-by-turn walking directions and capture proof of delivery all without needing to use a smartphone.
    Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 23 Oct. 2025
  • The glasses will allow drivers to scan packages, following detailed walking directions, and document proof-of-delivery without their phones.
    Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The poll surveyed 500 likely Democratic primary voters from October 21-25 and used the online Pollfish panel.
    Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Brunty-Barojas stood with one hand on her hip, surveying the bags of toys and clothes in the garage.
    Lauren Villagran, USA Today, 26 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Examine.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/examine. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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