Peer: meaning, definitions and examples

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peer

 

[ pɪər ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

group

A person who is equal to another in abilities, qualifications, age, background, and social status.

Synonyms

colleague, companion, equal, match.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peer

Similar to the first entry about 'peer', emphasizing someone of equal standing, often within a professional or academic group.

  • Her research was critically acclaimed by her peers.
  • The new policy was discussed among the peers of the scientific community.
colleague

Typically refers to someone you work with in a professional or business environment.

  • John introduced me to his colleagues at the office party.
  • She often collaborates with her colleagues on major projects.
companion

Used to describe someone you spend time with, often in a friendly or intimate context. It can imply a supportive or loyal relationship.

  • Her dog has been a faithful companion for over ten years.
  • He traveled with his companion to several countries during their summer break.
equal

Refers to someone who has the same rank, rights, or social status. It emphasizes fairness and lack of superiority.

  • Despite their different backgrounds, they always treated each other as equals.
  • In the eyes of the law, all citizens are equals.
match

Often used in a competitive or comparative context to describe someone or something that is equally suitable or strong.

  • He has finally found a worthy match in the chess tournament.
  • The company is looking for a candidate who is a good match for this role.

Examples of usage

  • He was respected by his peers for his hard work and dedication.
  • She was elected by her peers to be the team captain.
  • The students formed a close bond as they interacted with their peers.
Context #2 | Verb

review

To look closely or carefully at something, especially in order to find faults or errors.

Synonyms

examine, inspect, scrutinize, study.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
peer

This word is typically used when you look at something with difficulty or concentration, often because it is hard to see clearly.

  • She had to peer through the fog to see the road ahead.
  • He peered at the tiny print in the contract.
examine

This is used when you look at something carefully to understand more about it or to check for problems. It’s quite neutral and can be used in academic, medical, or practical situations.

  • The doctor will examine you now.
  • Please examine the document before signing it.
inspect

This word is used when you look at something closely and carefully, often to check its condition or to ensure that it meets certain standards. It can be formal or related to official duties.

  • The mechanic will inspect your car for any issues.
  • The health inspector is here to inspect the kitchen.
scrutinize

This word means to look at something very closely and thoroughly, usually because you are suspicious or want to find something wrong. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • The auditor is here to scrutinize the financial records.
  • She scrutinized his behavior, looking for any sign of dishonesty.
study

Used when you look at something in detail and for a long time, especially for learning or research purposes. This word is often used in academic and scientific contexts.

  • She went to the library to study for her exams.
  • Scientists study the behavior of animals in their natural habitat.

Examples of usage

  • The editor asked me to peer review the article before publication.
  • She peered at the document to ensure there were no mistakes.

Translations

Translations of the word "peer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 par

🇮🇳 सहकर्मी

🇩🇪 Kollege

🇮🇩 rekan

🇺🇦 рівний

🇵🇱 rówieśnik

🇯🇵 同僚 (どうりょう)

🇫🇷 pair

🇪🇸 colega

🇹🇷 

🇰🇷 동료 (동료)

🇸🇦 نظير

🇨🇿 vrstevník

🇸🇰 rovesník

🇨🇳 同辈 (Tóngbèi)

🇸🇮 vrstnik

🇮🇸 jafningi

🇰🇿 тең

🇬🇪 თანატოლი

🇦🇿 yaşıd

🇲🇽 colega

Etymology

The word 'peer' originated from the Old French word 'per' which means 'equal'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to someone of the same rank, ability, or social status. The concept of peers has been significant in various societies, especially in legal systems where peers are individuals who share similar roles or statuses. Today, 'peer' is commonly used to describe individuals who are considered equals in a particular context.

See also: peerage, peeress, peerless, peers.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,060 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.