scrutinize
UK: /ˈskruː.tɪ.naɪz/ | US: /ˈskruː.t̬ən.aɪz/
vt. to examine or inspect closely and thoroughly
vt. to observe or analyze with critical attention
scrutinize = scrut<examine> + inize<verb suffix>
- scrut<examine>: From Latin scrutari ("to search or examine"), derived from scruta ("trash, broken items"—referring to rummaging through debris).
- inize<verb suffix>: A verb-forming suffix, often indicating "to make or perform the action of the root."
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to the Latin scrutari, which originally meant "to search through rubbish" (from scruta, "broken items"). Over time, it evolved to mean "close examination," reflecting the meticulousness of sifting through debris. The suffix "-ize" was added in English to form a verb, emphasizing the act of detailed inspection.
The committee will scrutinize the proposal before voting.
She scrutinized the contract for hidden clauses.
Auditors scrutinize financial records to detect fraud.
The scientist scrutinized the data for inconsistencies.
His every move was scrutinized by the media.