Examine vs. Scrutinize

Attribute	Examine	Scrutinize
Definition	To inspect or investigate closely	To examine or inspect closely and thoroughly
Intensity	Less intense than scrutinize	More intense than examine
Focus	General observation	Detailed observation
Purpose	To gather information or assess	To analyze or evaluate critically

Definition

Examine and scrutinize are two verbs that are often used interchangeably, but they have subtle differences in meaning. To examine something means to inspect or observe it closely in order to gain a better understanding of it. On the other hand, to scrutinize something means to examine it closely and critically, often with the intention of finding faults or errors.

Intensity

One key difference between examine and scrutinize is the level of intensity involved. When you examine something, you are simply looking at it closely to understand it better. It does not necessarily imply a critical evaluation. On the other hand, when you scrutinize something, you are looking at it with a more critical eye, searching for any flaws or mistakes.

Focus

Another difference between examine and scrutinize is the focus of the action. When you examine something, you are generally looking at the overall picture or the broader context. You are trying to understand the subject as a whole. On the other hand, when you scrutinize something, you are focusing on the details and looking for any inconsistencies or discrepancies.

Intent

The intent behind examining and scrutinizing something also differs. When you examine something, your goal is usually to gain knowledge or insight. You are trying to learn more about the subject and understand it better. On the other hand, when you scrutinize something, your goal is often to find faults or errors. You are looking for weaknesses or problems in the subject.

Approach

The approach to examining and scrutinizing something can also vary. When you examine something, you may do so in a more neutral and objective manner. You are simply trying to understand the subject without any preconceived notions. On the other hand, when you scrutinize something, you may approach it with a more critical and skeptical mindset. You are actively looking for flaws or mistakes.

Examples

• Examine: The scientist examined the data carefully to draw meaningful conclusions.
• Scrutinize: The auditor scrutinized the company's financial records for any signs of fraud.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while examine and scrutinize are often used interchangeably, they have distinct differences in meaning and connotation. Examine is more about observing and understanding, while scrutinize is about analyzing and critiquing. Understanding these nuances can help you choose the right word for the right context.