What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scrutinize
Example
The detective scrutinized the crime scene for any clues. [scrutinized: verb]
Example
She scrutinized the contract before signing it. [scrutinized: past tense]
analyze
Example
The scientist analyzed the data to determine the cause of the phenomenon. [analyzed: verb]
Example
He spent hours analyzing the poem to understand its meaning. [analyzing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Analyze is more commonly used than scrutinize in everyday language. Analyze is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while scrutinize is less common and often used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scrutinize and analyze?
Analyze is generally considered more formal than scrutinize. While both words can be used in academic or professional contexts, analyze is more commonly used in these settings and is associated with a more objective and scientific tone.
