Synonyms of inspect

inspect

verb

in-ˈspekt 

as in to examine

to look over closely (as for judging quality or condition)

inspected the collie before the dog show

Synonyms & Similar Words

• examine
• scan
• review
• survey
• view
• scrutinize
• analyze
• watch
• audit
• oversee
• check (out)
• investigate
• go over
• explore
• con
• notice
• dissect
• study
• overlook
• observe
• peruse
• comb
• parse
• classify
• probe
• plumb
• research
• categorize
• pore (over)
• reinspect
• delve (into)
• pick over
• resurvey
• rereview

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• skim
• miss
• glance (at or over)

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of inspect are examine, scan, and scrutinize. While all these words mean "to look at or over," inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects.

inspected my credentials

When can examine be used instead of inspect?

The words examine and inspect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing.

examined the specimens

When might scan be a better fit than inspect?

In some situations, the words scan and inspect are roughly equivalent. However, scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation.

scanned the wine list

When would scrutinize be a good substitute for inspect?

The synonyms scrutinize and inspect are sometimes interchangeable, but scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail.

scrutinized the hospital bill

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of inspect

Because activity levels can differ by location, prospective members may want to inspect what is available nearby before upgrading. — Miami Herald, 25 Sep. 2026

The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act requires public school districts to inspect school buildings for asbestos-containing materials and prepare a management plan to prevent and reduce exposure to asbestos. — Rebecca Smullin Dawson, The Conversation, 25 Sep. 2026

Body camera footage showed responding officers inspecting the car and working to determine how to safely remove the snake. — Stephen Sorace, FOXNews.com, 23 Sep. 2026

Lipson laid out his sweatshirt for the man to rest on while Garton inspected his injuries. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026