Scanning Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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scanning

[หˆskanษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

technology

The process of capturing information or images using an electronic device, such as a scanner.

Synonyms

digitization, digitizing, scanning process.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scanning

General term used when converting a physical document or object into a digital format using a scanner.

  • She is scanning the old photographs to save them on her computer.
  • The library is scanning books to create a digital archive.
digitization

More formal and technical term used in the context of converting information into a digital format, often involving large-scale projects and multiple processes.

  • The digitization of historical records has made them accessible to a wider audience.
  • Many companies are investing in the digitization of their documents to improve efficiency.
digitizing

Informal variation of 'digitization' often used interchangeably but more common in casual conversations. It refers to the process of converting physical media to digital form.

  • I am digitizing my notes from the last seminar.
  • They are digitizing all the old movies in their collection.
scanning process

Refers to the detailed procedure involved in converting physical items into digital format, emphasizing the step-by-step aspect.

  • The scanning process involves preparing documents, scanning them, and then organizing the digital files.
  • Understanding the scanning process can help improve accuracy and efficiency.

Examples of usage

  • I need to do a scanning of these documents for our records.
  • The scanning of fingerprints is a common method of identification.
Context #2 | Verb

technology

To analyze something thoroughly or methodically.

Synonyms

analyze, examine, inspect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scanning

Appropriate for quickly looking over something for specific details or to capture a general sense. Often used in the context of reading documents, barcodes, or medical imaging.

  • He was scanning the document for any mistakes.
  • The doctor is scanning the X-ray to look for fractures.
  • She scanned the room to find her lost keys.
analyze

Best fitted when referring to a systematic examination of details, often involving data or concepts to understand something thoroughly. Commonly used in academic, scientific, or business settings.

  • The scientist will analyze the data collected from the experiment.
  • He analyzed the market trends before making the investment.
  • They need to analyze the results of the survey.
examine

Useful when referring to a detailed inspection or investigation, typically of physical objects or documents, to uncover details or determine condition.

  • The doctor will examine the patient's eyes.
  • She examined the antique vase carefully.
  • We need to examine the evidence before making a conclusion.
inspect

Generally used when looking at something closely, often to ensure it meets certain standards or to find problems. This word is common in regulatory, quality control, or safety contexts.

  • The building inspector will visit tomorrow to inspect the new construction.
  • She inspected the kitchen to make sure everything was clean.
  • He inspected the car for any damages after the accident.

Examples of usage

  • The security team is scanning the network for any vulnerabilities.
  • She was scanning the crowd for her friend's familiar face.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computing, scanning can refer to the process of examining a document using a scanner to convert it into a digital format.
  • Optical character recognition technology allows scanned images of text to become editable and searchable documents.

Education

  • Scanning is a reading strategy where you quickly look for specific information instead of reading everything in detail.
  • This technique helps students save time during exams by finding answers efficiently.

Psychology

  • Research shows that scanning can activate different areas of the brain, as it involves quick decision-making and visual processing.
  • People often scan environments instinctively for safety, highlighting an evolutionarily beneficial skill.

Literature

  • In poetry, scanning refers to analyzing a poem's meter, determining the rhythm and structure by marking stressed and unstressed syllables.
  • Great poets often use scanning to create specific musicality and emotional impact in their writing.

Origin of 'scanning'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Latin 'scanare', which means 'to climb' or 'to traverse', giving the sense of moving across something.
  • Initially used in the context of climbing or stepping through something, its meaning evolved to include inspection.

The word 'scanning' originates from the Old French word 'escanner', which means 'to examine closely'. It has evolved over time to encompass the modern meanings related to technology and information processing. The concept of scanning has become essential in various fields, including document management, security, and data analysis.


See also: scanner.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,084 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.