Synonyms of scan

scan 1 of 2

verb

ˈskan 

as in to examine

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

scanned the manuscript carefully for any overlooked errors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• skim
• miss
• glance (at or over)

scan

2 of 2

noun

as in inspection

a close look at or over someone or something in order to judge condition

gave the car a good scan to see if it was worth buying

Synonyms & Similar Words

• inspection
• examination
• audit
• survey
• scrutiny
• review
• check
• view
• checkup
• analysis
• study
• investigation
• look-see
• research
• probe
• going-over
• dissection
• exploration
• assay
• recheck
• deconstruction
• interrogation
• perusal
• inquisition
• observation
• close-up
• watch
• surveillance
• reinspection
• resurvey
• checkout
• once-over
• trial run
• test-drive

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of scan are examine, inspect, and scrutinize. While all these words mean "to look at or over," scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation.

scanned the wine list

When is it sensible to use examine instead of scan?

The words examine and scan can be used in similar contexts, but 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 scan?

The meanings of inspect and scan largely overlap; however, inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects.

inspected my credentials

When could scrutinize be used to replace scan?

In some situations, the words scrutinize and scan are roughly equivalent. However, scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail.

scrutinized the hospital bill

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scan

Verb

Workers are using LiDAR data and satellite imagery to scan the area and assist in rescue efforts, Bongkawong said. —Britt Clennett, ABC News, 1 June 2026

Before booking, read host reviews carefully, examine the hosting history, scan photos for consistency and review house rules. —Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 1 June 2026

Noun

On the front of the card was a scan of his brain showing the tumor on it. —Scott M. Reid, Oc Register, 30 May 2026

Subsequent scans would reveal a one-inch indentation to her left temple and brain swelling. —Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 29 May 2026