Definitions
- Describing a quick and superficial reading of a text to get a general idea. - Talking about removing the surface layer of a liquid or substance. - Referring to moving smoothly and lightly over a surface, such as water or snow.
- Describing a thorough and careful reading of a text to understand it completely. - Talking about examining something in detail, such as a document or a proposal. - Referring to browsing or looking through something leisurely and with interest.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words relate to reading or examining something.
- 2Both can be used to describe a process of going through something quickly or thoroughly.
- 3Both words can be used in formal or informal contexts.
What is the difference?
- 1Intensity: Peruse implies a more thorough and careful examination than skim.
- 2Purpose: Skim is often used to get a general idea of something, while peruse is used to understand something completely.
- 3Speed: Skim is a quick process, while peruse takes more time and attention.
- 4Connotation: Skim has a neutral connotation, while peruse can imply a more serious or formal tone.
- 5Usage: Skim is more commonly used in everyday language, while peruse is more formal and less common.
Remember this!
Skim and peruse are both verbs that relate to reading or examining something. However, the difference between them is their intensity, purpose, speed, connotation, and usage. Skim is a quick and superficial process used to get a general idea of something, while peruse is a more thorough and careful examination used to understand something completely. Skim is more commonly used in everyday language, while peruse is more formal and less common.