What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
panning
Example
The camera panned across the room to show the entire scene. [panned: past tense]
Example
She panned her gaze around the room, looking for her lost keys. [panned: verb]
scanning
Example
I scanned the article for any relevant information. [scanned: past tense]
Example
He scanned the crowd for his friend's face. [scanned: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scanning is more commonly used than panning in everyday language, especially in the context of reading and technology. Panning is more specialized and is primarily used in film and photography.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between panning and scanning?
Both panning and scanning are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
