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

It's recommended to inspect the lawn mower blades before and after each use to check their sharpness and ensure there isn't any significant damage that needs to be addressed before use. —Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026

The vehicle Evanston Police officers inspected during their investigation has been seized and impounded pending a future administrative hearing, according to police. —Claire Murphy, Chicago Tribune, 30 Apr. 2026

Harford said hail that damages vehicles is certainly capable of damaging a roof, so homeowners who were hit by this week’s hailstorm might consider having their roofs inspected. —Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Apr. 2026

The family is claiming negligence and wrongful death on the part of the defendants for not maintaining and inspecting the mine, remediating any hazardous conditions, and warning others of those dangers. —Lauren Linder, CBS News, 30 Apr. 2026