What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
delve
Example
The journalist decided to delve deeper into the story to uncover the truth. [delve: verb]
Example
The researcher delved into the archives to find more information on the topic. [delved: past tense]
scrutinize
Example
The detective scrutinized the evidence to find any clues that could help solve the case. [scrutinized: past tense]
Example
The teacher scrutinized the student's essay to identify any errors or mistakes. [scrutinize: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scrutinize is more commonly used than delve in everyday language, especially in formal contexts such as academic writing or professional reports. Delve is less common but can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between delve and scrutinize?
Scrutinize is generally considered more formal than delve, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
