Scrutiny
SKROO-tuh-nee
/ˈskruːtɪni/
Critical observation or examination.
Implies a close, careful, and often suspicious or critical examination. It suggests that something is being looked at in detail to find flaws, verify facts, or assess performance.
The story behind the word. The word 'scrutiny' comes from the Latin verb 'scrutari,' meaning 'to search, examine, or ransack.' This root is related to 'scruta,' meaning 'trash, broken bits,' suggesting the act of sifting through small details. In English, it evolved to mean a close and critical examination, often implying a search for flaws or hidden truths.
Word relationships
- examination: More general, can be less critical or intense.
- inspection: Often implies a formal or official check.
- surveillance: Focuses on continuous observation, often covert, for security purposes.
- neglect: Lack of proper care or attention.
- oversight: An unintentional failure to notice or do something.
Word family
- scrutinize (v): To examine or inspect closely and thoroughly.
- scrutinizer (n): A person who scrutinizes.
Collocations
- intense scrutiny
- close scrutiny
- public scrutiny
- under scrutiny
- careful scrutiny
Idioms & expressions
- come under scrutiny
Example sentences
- "Every decision made by the new CEO came under intense scrutiny from the board of directors." About public figures.
- "The financial report underwent careful scrutiny by auditors before its public release." About a document.
- "Politicians often find their personal lives subjected to public scrutiny, especially during election campaigns." In a political context.
Memory hook
Imagine a 'SCREW-TINY' person who 'SCRUTINIZES' every tiny detail, like tightening a tiny screw. SCREW-TINY details
When not to use
Do not use for a casual glance or superficial look. It denotes a thorough and often intense inspection.
Fun facts
- The term is frequently used in legal and political contexts, referring to the examination of documents, policies, or public figures.
- In science, peer review involves the rigorous scrutiny of research papers by other experts in the field.
Related words
Explore more words
scrutinize, searching, inspection, inspect, probe, scrupulous
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