read over

USAGE SUMMARY

"read over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when your goal is to indicate that you want someone to review something they have already read. Example sentence: I'd like you to read over the contract carefully before you sign it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I've read over and over again that you're scary.

The New York Times - Magazine

What book do you read over and over again?

The New York Times - Books

Read over it.

The New Yorker

They would have just read over it.

The New York Times

Jared read over her shoulder.

The New Yorker

Sometimes I'll read over old stuff.

The New York Times - Magazine

He picked it up to read over.

The New Yorker

It's a deep pleasure to read over her shoulder.

The New York Times - Books

She read over her notes and looked up.

The New York Times - Magazine

I leaned in to read over David's shoulder.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

(b) Distribution of read-over-read quality.

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "read over", ensure the context makes it clear that you're referring to a review of something previously written, not a first-time reading. For example, "Please read over your application before submitting it."

Common error

Avoid using "read over" when the action is an initial reading. Instead of saying "I need to read over this new book," say "I need to read this new book."

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "read over" functions primarily as a directive, instructing someone to review written material with the intent of careful examination or revision. This is supported by the Ludwig AI, confirming its proper usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "read over" is a grammatically sound and useful way to instruct someone to review written material for errors or deeper understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correct usage in written English. Though not exceptionally common, it appears in a variety of contexts, from news articles to instructional guides, though primarily within wiki and news publications. Remember to use "read over" when referring to a review, not an initial reading, and to ensure clarity in your instructions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go over

Synonymous with "read over", implying a careful review.

review

This alternative offers a more concise way to express the action of examining something again.

go through

This implies a more thorough examination than "read over".

examine

This suggests a careful and detailed inspection.

scan

This suggests a quick and superficial reading.

skim

This implies reading quickly, focusing on main points.

peruse

This alternative suggests a more careful and leisurely reading.

study

This implies a focused and in-depth review of the material.

look through

This suggests browsing something without necessarily reading in detail.

check

This implies verifying accuracy or completeness.

FAQs

How can I use "read over" in a sentence?

You can use "read over" when you want to indicate that someone should review something. For example, "Could you please "read over" this report before the meeting?"

What is a synonym for "read over"?

A close synonym for "read over" is "go over", which also implies reviewing something. For example, "Let's "go over" the details one more time."

What's the difference between "read" and "read over"?

"Read" simply means to look at and understand the meaning of written or printed matter. "Read over" implies a more careful, second look, usually to check for errors or to ensure understanding. For example, you might "read" a novel for pleasure, but "read over" a contract before signing.

Is it ever incorrect to use "read over"?

It would be incorrect to use "read over" if you're referring to the first time someone is reading something. In that case, just use "read". For instance, you wouldn't say "I'm going to read over this email for the first time"; instead, say "I'm going to read this email".