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Scrutinization Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”
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scrutinization

[skroอžotnษ™หˆzฤSH(ษ™)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

formal

The act of examining or observing something closely and critically.

Synonyms

examination, inspection, investigation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scrutinization

Used in formal contexts to describe the detailed and careful analysis of something. Often involves a critical and thorough review.

  • The new policy went through close scrutinization before implementation
  • The budget proposal is under scrutinization by the finance committee
examination

Typically used in academic or medical contexts, referring to testing, analyzing, or looking at something closely to understand it better.

  • The doctor performed an examination to determine the patient's illness
  • Students are preparing for their final examinations next week
inspection

Commonly used in professional settings where something is officially examined to ensure it meets specific standards or regulations.

  • The restaurant passed the health inspection without any issues
  • A surprise inspection will be conducted to evaluate safety protocols
investigation

Used in legal or police contexts. Refers to a detailed inquiry or systematic study to uncover facts, usually related to a crime or incident.

  • The police launched an investigation into the suspicious fire
  • An internal investigation revealed instances of financial misconduct

Examples of usage

  • His scrutinization of the document revealed several inconsistencies.
  • The government's scrutinization of the company's financial records led to an investigation.
  • The media's scrutinization of the celebrity's private life created a lot of controversy.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

The act of examining or observing something closely and critically.

Synonyms

examine, inspect, investigate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scrutinization

Used in formal or official contexts, often implying a very detailed and critical observation or examination. It can carry a slightly negative connotation, suggesting intense and possibly uncomfortable scrutiny.

  • The company's financial records underwent severe scrutinization by the auditors
  • The celebrity's personal life is often under constant scrutinization by the media
examine

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to indicate looking at something carefully in order to learn more about it. It is neutral and broad in application.

  • The doctor will examine you to determine the cause of your symptoms
  • She examined the research data thoroughly before making conclusions
inspect

Typically used in contexts where a thorough and formal review or assessment is required often for compliance or quality assurance. It implies a methodical approach.

  • The building inspector will inspect the site tomorrow
  • He inspected the machinery closely for any signs of wear and tear
investigate

Used when looking into something deeply to uncover facts, often associated with formal inquiries, research, or situations involving potential wrongdoing. It can carry a serious tone.

  • The police decided to investigate the matter further
  • Scientists are investigating the effects of climate change on local ecosystems

Examples of usage

  • She scrutinized the contract before signing it.
  • The police officer scrutinized the suspect's alibi.
  • The committee scrutinized the budget proposal.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In scientific research, scrutinization ensures that experiments are evaluated for accuracy and credibility.
  • Peer review processes in journals involve high levels of scrutinization to maintain quality of published work.
  • Microscopy is a form of scrutinization in biology, allowing scientists to observe tiny organisms that are otherwise invisible.

Psychology

  • Over-scrutinization can lead to analysis paralysis, where too much evaluation prevents decision-making.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy often involves scrutinization of thoughts to identify patterns that influence behavior.
  • People who regularly scrutinize their surroundings may develop heightened observational skills, valuable in many professions.

Business

  • In business audits, scrutinization is crucial for ensuring compliance and financial accuracy.
  • Market research involves scrutinization of consumer behavior to tailor products effectively.
  • Performance reviews often involve scrutinization of employeesโ€™ work to provide constructive feedback.

Education

  • Critical reading skills in education are developed through the scrutinization of texts, teaching students to analyze arguments.
  • Scrutinization in assessment helps educators ensure that grades accurately reflect student understanding.
  • Project-based learning encourages scrutinization of research sources, fostering better understanding and analytical skills among students.

Origin of 'scrutinization'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'scrutinium', which means 'a search' or 'investigation'.
  • It evolved from 'scrutari', which means 'to search' or 'to examine closely'.
  • It reflects a practice that has been central to various fields, emphasizing thoroughness in inquiry.

The word 'scrutinization' is derived from the verb 'scrutinize,' which comes from the Latin word 'scrutari,' meaning 'to search or examine.' The term has been in use since the mid-19th century, primarily in formal or academic contexts to describe the process of examining something closely and critically.

See also: scrutinizable, scrutinize, scrutinizer, scrutinizingly.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,686, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.