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Perusing: meaning, definitions and examples

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perusing

 

[ pəˈruː.zɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

reading carefully

Perusing refers to the act of reading something carefully and in detail. It implies a thorough examination of the material, often with the intention of understanding or analyzing it deeply. This term can be applied to a wide range of texts, including books, articles, and documents. When someone is perusing, they are generally taking their time, absorbing information rather than skimming. Perusing can also indicate a leisurely approach to reading, as opposed to a rushed one.

Synonyms

examining, exploring, reading, scrutinizing, studying

Examples of usage

  • She spent the afternoon perusing the library's new arrivals.
  • He was perusing the report to find the key findings.
  • They sat in the park, perusing their favorite magazines.

Translations

Translations of the word "perusing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 examinando

🇮🇳 पढ़ाई करना

🇩🇪 durchsehen

🇮🇩 membaca dengan teliti

🇺🇦 ознайомлення

🇵🇱 przeglądanie

🇯🇵 熟読する

🇫🇷 parcourir

🇪🇸 examinar

🇹🇷 incelemek

🇰🇷 조사하다

🇸🇦 دراسة

🇨🇿 procházet

🇸🇰 prezerať

🇨🇳 仔细阅读

🇸🇮 preučevanje

🇮🇸 skoða

🇰🇿 зерттеу

🇬🇪 გამოწვდილი

🇦🇿 araşdırma

🇲🇽 revisar

Word origin

The word 'peruse' traces its origins back to the late Middle Ages. It comes from the combination of the prefix 'per-', which means 'through' or 'completely', and the verb 'use'. Originally, in the 14th century, the term signified thorough use or examination. By the 16th century, its meaning had evolved to imply an engrossed or careful reading of texts. 'Peruse' was commonly used in legal and literary contexts, where detailed scrutiny was paramount. Interestingly, over time, the meaning of 'peruse' has become somewhat ambiguous, as some modern speakers often use it to mean 'to skim' or 'to glance at', which contrasts with its traditional definition. This shift illustrates how language evolves over time, accommodating new usage while retaining echoes of its historical roots.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,760, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.