Synonyms of scrutinize

scrutinize

verb

ˈskrü-tə-ˌnīz 

as in to examine

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

the project's time constraints make it impossible for the programmers to scrutinize every line of code, so some bugs should be expected

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• skim
• miss
• glance (at or over)

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of scrutinize are examine, inspect, and scan. While all these words mean "to look at or over," scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail.

scrutinized the hospital bill

When might examine be a better fit than scrutinize?

The words examine and scrutinize 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 is inspect a more appropriate choice than scrutinize?

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

inspected my credentials

When could scan be used to replace scrutinize?

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

scanned the wine list

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of scrutinize

His presidential action in California will be scrutinized during a federal trial that begins today as part of a challenge brought by the governor. —Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 11 Aug. 2025

An official in President Donald Trump’s administration now publicly supports education grants started by Gov. Brad Little that have been highly scrutinized in the Idaho Legislature, putting the administration at odds with a wide swath of Idaho Republicans who have opposed the program. —Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 6 Aug. 2025

Campbell has been heavily scrutinized for his 32 5/8-inch arms, which are shorter than most starting tackles’ and three full inches shorter than Wise’s. —Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 6 Aug. 2025

The fact that scientists are scrutinizing findings and correcting the record is a positive sign. —F.d. Flam, Twin Cities, 6 Aug. 2025

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