scrutinize closely

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "scrutinize closely" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the need for careful examination or analysis of something in detail. Example: "Before making a decision, it is essential to scrutinize closely all the available data and evidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

-- secondly, the next President shoudl understand that we will scrutinize closely his ministerial appointments for competence and commitment to good governance.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This month's meeting, now extended to run Sept. 20-21, will be scrutinized closely by investors.

The New York Times

Presidential candidates must be scrutinized closely and carefully, and be willing to undergo a thorough vetting.

The New York Times

As the first woman to lead so large a company, her actions were inevitably scrutinized closely in Silicon Valley and beyond.

The New York Times

But it is also worth scrutinizing closely to reveal the difficulties facing the revisionist project here and elsewhere.

The New York Times - Arts

For many reasons, including what influence the deal could have on ticket prices, the deal is likely to be scrutinized closely by federal antitrust regulators.

The New York Times

A senior official at the department, who wasn't authorized to speak publicly on the matter, said the payments are scrutinized closely.

The New York Times

Amplifying sensitivities is the fact that Benedict, 82, is also a German of a certain generation, an unwilling member of the Hitler Youth, whose every action is scrutinized closely in that light.

The New York Times

If scrutinized closely, these unique patterns can be determined.

Forensic Comparative Science Qualitative Quantitative Source Determinationof Unique Impressions, Images, and Objects

Financial terms of his bid for Manchester City are sure to be scrutinized closely back at home.

Forbes

We suggest that in the design phase of clinical trials, proposed eligibility criteria be scrutinized closely.

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "scrutinize closely", ensure that the context warrants a detailed and critical examination. Avoid redundancy by ensuring the object of scrutiny is clearly defined.

Common error

While "scrutinize closely" is grammatically sound, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "look closely" or "check carefully" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scrutinize closely" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of examining something with great care and attention to detail. Ludwig's examples show it applied to diverse subjects like ministerial appointments, financial terms, and study designs. The inclusion of "closely" amplifies the degree of scrutiny.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

44%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "scrutinize closely" is deemed grammatically correct by Ludwig and is commonly used to emphasize a detailed and careful examination. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it carries a neutral to formal tone. While effective in highlighting the need for thoroughness, using simpler alternatives might be preferable in less formal settings. Ludwig examples demonstrate its wide applicability, reinforcing its role in analytical and critical communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Examine meticulously

Replaces "scrutinize" with "examine" and "closely" with "meticulously", emphasizing thoroughness and attention to detail.

Investigate thoroughly

Substitutes "scrutinize" with "investigate" implying a more formal and systematic inquiry; replaces "closely" with "thoroughly" stressing completeness.

Analyze carefully

Uses "analyze" instead of "scrutinize", highlighting a more analytical approach; "carefully" replaces "closely" emphasizing caution and precision.

Inspect minutely

"Inspect" replaces "scrutinize", suggesting a detailed visual examination; "minutely" emphasizes the fine-grained nature of the inspection.

Review in detail

"Review" substitutes "scrutinize", indicating a comprehensive assessment; "in detail" replaces "closely" highlighting the thoroughness of the review.

Assess comprehensively

Replaces the terms with synonyms that convey a sense of overall evaluation and broad scope, emphasizing complete understanding.

Delve into deeply

Uses "delve into" to mean explore, investigate and "deeply" instead of closely. Highlights the level of detail.

Check over carefully

Uses a more colloquial synonym for examine closely

Give careful consideration

Shifts the focus from examination to thoughtful evaluation, using more abstract language.

Study intently

Replaces "scrutinize" with "study" highlighting an effort to learn and understand; replaces "closely" with "intently" emphasizing focus and concentration.

FAQs

How can I use "scrutinize closely" in a sentence?

You can use "scrutinize closely" when you want to emphasize the need for a very careful and detailed examination. For example, "The auditor will "scrutinize closely" all financial records".

What's the difference between "scrutinize closely" and "examine carefully"?

While both phrases suggest a detailed review, ""scrutinize closely"" implies a more critical and potentially skeptical examination, whereas "examine carefully" simply denotes thoroughness.

What can I say instead of "scrutinize closely"?

Alternatives include "examine thoroughly", "investigate thoroughly", or "analyze carefully", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is it redundant to say "scrutinize closely"?

While "scrutinize" already implies a detailed examination, adding "closely" can emphasize the intensity and thoroughness of the scrutiny, though it may sometimes be perceived as slightly redundant. The key is to ensure that the additional emphasis is warranted in the context.