I scrutinised

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I scrutinised" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that you examined something very carefully and in detail. Example: "I scrutinised the report for any errors before submitting it to my supervisor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I scrutinised their faces.

The Guardian

It was only at this stage that I scrutinised the small print of the recipe.

Independent

Outside Moscow I scrutinised the picket-fenced dachas (summer houses) painted in pastel colours.

The Guardian - Travel

As an unestranged dad myself, I scrutinised Coltrane at the beginning of each scene, fascinated and weirdly anxious to see if and how he'd grown.

The Guardian - Film

As I scrutinised decaying stumps for the blackened digits of dead man's fingers, I noticed an unmistakable cluster of red and white-spotted mushrooms among the leaf litter.

The Guardian

After the terrorist attacks of September 11th 2001, the French government shut down the cameras, but Ms Lauvergeon had the right idea: letting people see in relieves their fears.But at Flamanville, however closely I scrutinised the ironwork, the Russian construction workers and pipes, it was clear that only a nuclear expert could make a useful judgment about safety.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

I scrutinise the page for a moment.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I don't believe I'm obsessive, but I do exercise every single day, and I scrutinise myself for minuscule changes brought about by my latest challenge (this month it's the ab challenge)." What interests me about Alexandra's case is how she hides her hang-ups from her friends.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I get scrutinised and asked, "Why don't you work?" I've lost four friends who asked why was I living on taxpayers' money.

The Guardian - Film

I'd scrutinised those bricks, the way they sat upon each other, many times over those five years.

The Guardian

Still, in my ongoing bid to live forever – so far, so good – I have scrutinised the lifestyle habits of the bright, beautiful Forever Young.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "scrutinised". It's more formal than "looked at" or "checked", so it's best suited for professional or academic writing.

Common error

Avoid using "scrutinised" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler words like "checked", "looked at", or "examined" are often more appropriate and natural in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "I scrutinised" is that of an independent clause, where "I" serves as the subject and "scrutinised" functions as the main verb in the past tense. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I scrutinised" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, employed to describe a thorough and detailed examination. While not extremely common, it's suitable for formal contexts such as news reporting or analytical writing. The phrase is often used to convey a sense of critical analysis. Alternatives like "I examined closely" or "I inspected carefully" can be used for similar meanings, but "scrutinised" carries a slightly more formal tone. Remember to avoid overuse in casual contexts, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in examining a variety of subjects, from documents to personal observations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I examined closely

This alternative emphasizes the detailed nature of the examination, making it a very close synonym.

I inspected carefully

This option highlights the thoroughness of the inspection, conveying a similar sense of meticulousness.

I analyzed thoroughly

Focuses on a detailed analysis, emphasizing a deeper understanding gained through examination.

I investigated in detail

This suggests a more formal or structured inquiry, implying a systematic approach to the examination.

I reviewed meticulously

Highlights the precision and attention to detail in the review process.

I surveyed comprehensively

Implies a broad and complete overview, suggesting a wide scope of examination.

I assessed with precision

Emphasizes the accuracy and exactness of the assessment.

I appraised rigorously

This suggests a strict and demanding evaluation, often used in formal settings.

I observed intently

Highlights the focused and watchful nature of the observation.

I checked meticulously

Highlights the attention to detail during the verification process.

FAQs

What does "I scrutinised" mean?

The phrase "I scrutinised" means that you examined something very carefully and thoroughly, often with the intent of finding flaws or understanding details.

What can I say instead of "I scrutinised"?

You can use alternatives like "I examined closely", "I inspected carefully", or "I analyzed thoroughly", depending on the context.

Is "I scrutinised" formal or informal?

"I scrutinised" is generally considered a formal expression. In informal contexts, using phrases like "I checked" or "I looked at" might be more appropriate.

How do I use "I scrutinised" in a sentence?

Use "I scrutinised" when you want to emphasize a careful and detailed examination. For example, "I scrutinised the evidence presented in the case".