Scouting: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used in the context of finding talent, opportunities, or information, often for sports teams, military purposes, or organizations seeking new locations. It usually involves preliminary observation.

• The baseball team spent months scouting new players for the upcoming season.
• The army was scouting the area to gather intel on enemy positions.

Surveying is usually employed in contexts involving the examination or measuring of land and spaces for construction, mapping, or research purposes. It often implies a systematic or scientific approach.

• The engineers are surveying the land before starting the construction project.
• He spent the afternoon surveying the coastline for potential nesting sites.

Exploring generally refers to traveling through an area to learn about it or to uncover new information, often in a spirit of adventure or discovery. It can also be used metaphorically for investigating new ideas or topics.

• They spent the summer exploring the jungles of South America.
• She's exploring new career options after finishing her degree.

This word is typically used in formal or serious contexts, often involving police, journalists, or researchers trying to uncover facts about a specific issue, crime, or phenomenon.

• The police are investigating the cause of the fire.
• The journalist is investigating allegations of corruption within the company.

Refers to the act of searching or investigating an area for specific information or future possibilities. Often used in military contexts or when looking for opportunities.

• The team went scouting for a new location to set up their camp.
• She's scouting talent for the upcoming play.

Implies a thorough search or investigation of a place or topic, often to discover new information or experiences. It has a sense of curiosity and discovery.

• The scientists are exploring new methods to combat climate change.
• He enjoys exploring abandoned buildings in his free time.

Specifically refers to long walks, often in nature, usually on trails or paths. It is a recreational activity that involves physical effort.

• We spent the weekend hiking in the mountains.
• Hiking trails in this region offer breathtaking views.

Used to describe engaging in exciting or unusual activities, often involving travel and exploration. It has a sense of risk and excitement.

• They spent the summer adventuring through the wild forests of South America.
• Adventuring in unknown lands always gives me a thrill.