Scrutiny: meaning, definitions and examples

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scrutiny

 

[ ˈskruː.tɪ.ni ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

under examination

Critical observation or examination.

Synonyms

analysis, examination, inspection, investigation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scrutiny

Used when there is a need for careful and detailed examination, often to ensure that everything is correct. It is commonly used in formal contexts.

  • The new policy will be under intense scrutiny by experts.
  • Every aspect of the proposal was subjected to scrutiny.
examination

Used in contexts where something is being looked at very closely to learn more about it. Commonly used in academic or medical settings.

  • The doctor recommended a thorough examination to identify the cause of the symptoms.
  • A close examination of the document revealed several errors.
inspection

Used when something is being officially looked at to assess its condition or compliance with regulations. Often used in contexts related to quality control or safety.

  • The building passed its annual safety inspection.
  • There will be an inspection of the factory next week.
investigation

Used when there is a need to uncover facts or find out the truth, often related to legal or criminal contexts.

  • The police launched an investigation into the theft.
  • After a thorough investigation, the cause of the accident was determined.
analysis

Appropriate for situations where something is broken down into parts to understand it better. Often used in academic or technical contexts.

  • The financial analysis revealed some concerning trends.
  • The data analysis showed a significant increase in sales.

Examples of usage

  • The company's financial records were under scrutiny by auditors.
  • His actions came under scrutiny after the scandal broke out.
Context #2 | Noun

careful examination

Close and careful examination or observation.

Synonyms

examination, inspection, review, scrutinization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scrutiny

Used when looking very closely at something, especially seeking out faults or problems. Often formal and can imply criticism or suspicion.

  • The company's financial records are now under scrutiny by the regulatory authorities
  • Her actions have come under close scrutiny
examination

Used in academic or medical settings, or when analyzing something thoroughly and in detail. It suggests a formal and methodical process.

  • The doctor performed a thorough examination of the patient
  • Students are preparing for their final examinations
inspection

Used when visually checking something, often to ensure it meets certain standards or regulations. Common in quality control and regulatory contexts.

  • The building passed the safety inspection
  • The inspector conducted a detailed inspection of the factory
scrutinization

Used similarly to 'scrutiny', typically in a formal or technical context. It implies a detailed and thorough examination, often with an emphasis on finding faults.

  • The scrutinization of the policy revealed several flaws
  • The details of the contract underwent careful scrutinization
review

Used when looking back over work, performance, or a situation to judge its quality or effectiveness. It can be formal or informal.

  • The manager will conduct a performance review next week
  • I read several reviews before deciding to buy the product

Examples of usage

  • The project was completed under the scrutiny of experts.
  • She faced intense scrutiny from the public and media.
Context #3 | Noun

critical assessment

A critical assessment or evaluation.

Synonyms

appraisal, assessment, evaluation, judgment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
scrutiny

Detailed and careful examination, often used when someone critically examines something to find faults or understand it deeply.

  • The project will undergo thorough scrutiny before approval
  • The politician's actions have come under intense scrutiny
assessment

The process of evaluating or measuring something, frequently used in educational, healthcare, or project management contexts.

  • Students take assessments at the end of each term
  • The risk assessment is crucial for our safety plan
evaluation

A systematic process to determine the significance or value of something, often used in research, education, and business.

  • The project evaluation revealed several areas for improvement
  • We need to conduct an evaluation of the new software's effectiveness
appraisal

A formal evaluation, often used in a professional or work setting to measure performance or determine the value of something.

  • The yearly performance appraisal helps employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement
  • A real estate appraisal is essential before buying a house
judgment

The ability to make considered decisions or come to sensible conclusions, often based on a combination of experience, knowledge, and assessment.

  • Her judgment was questioned after the incident
  • Good judgment is crucial for leadership positions

Examples of usage

  • The proposal will undergo scrutiny by the board of directors.
  • The candidate's qualifications were subject to scrutiny during the interview process.

Translations

Translations of the word "scrutiny" in other languages:

🇵🇹 escrutínio

🇮🇳 गहन निरीक्षण

🇩🇪 genaue Untersuchung

🇮🇩 pengawasan ketat

🇺🇦 ретельний аналіз

🇵🇱 dokładna analiza

🇯🇵 精査 (せいさ)

🇫🇷 examen minutieux

🇪🇸 escrutinio

🇹🇷 dikkatli inceleme

🇰🇷 정밀 조사

🇸🇦 تمحيص دقيق

🇨🇿 důkladná analýza

🇸🇰 dôkladná analýza

🇨🇳 仔细审查 (zǐxì shěnchá)

🇸🇮 natančna analiza

🇮🇸 ítarleg skoðun

🇰🇿 мұқият тексеру

🇬🇪 ძალიან საფუძვლიანი გამოკვლევა

🇦🇿 dərindən araşdırma

🇲🇽 escrutinio

Etymology

The word 'scrutiny' originated from the Latin word 'scrutinium', meaning a search or inquiry. It has been used in English since the 15th century to refer to the act of examining or inspecting something closely. Over the years, 'scrutiny' has come to represent not just observation, but also a critical assessment and evaluation of various subjects.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,098 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.