scrutinizes

Scrutinizes is the third-person singular present tense of the verb scrutinize. To scrutinize means to examine something closely and in detail, often with careful analysis and sometimes skepticism. The term is commonly used in contexts such as audits, investigations, research, quality control, compliance reviews, and performance assessments.

Etymology and forms: The verb originated from Latin scrutari, scrutinium; it entered English in the 16th century. The American spelling is scrutinize, the British variant scrutinise. The present participle is scrutinising (scrutinising in British English); the past tense and past participle are scrutinized or scrutinised. The sense emphasizes thoroughness and exacting inspection rather than a casual glance.

Usage notes and examples: In formal writing, one might say, "The committee scrutinizes all grant applications" or "Researchers scrutinize data for errors and biases." The phrase "scrutinize closely" is common, as is "subject to scrutiny." Synonyms include examine, inspect, probe, audit. The word conveys careful, detailed examination intended to reveal facts, discrepancies, or quality concerns.