INSPECT Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'inspect' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of inspect are examine , scan , and scrutinize . While all these words mean "to look at or over," inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects. // inspected my credentials

Q: When can 'examine' be used instead of 'inspect'?

The words examine and inspect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing. // examined the specimens

Q: When might 'scan' be a better fit than 'inspect'?

In some situations, the words scan and inspect are roughly equivalent. However, scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation. // scanned the wine list

Q: When would 'scrutinize' be a good substitute for 'inspect'?

The synonyms scrutinize and inspect are sometimes interchangeable, but scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail. // scrutinized the hospital bill

inspect

verb

in-ˈspekt

Definition of inspect next

as in to examine

to look over closely (as for judging quality or condition) inspected the collie before the dog show

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word inspect different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of inspect are examine, scan, and scrutinize. While all these words mean "to look at or over," inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects.

inspected my credentials

When can examine be used instead of inspect?

The words examine and inspect are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing.

examined the specimens

When might scan be a better fit than inspect?

In some situations, the words scan and inspect are roughly equivalent. However, scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation.

scanned the wine list

When would scrutinize be a good substitute for inspect?

The synonyms scrutinize and inspect are sometimes interchangeable, but scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail.

scrutinized the hospital bill

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of inspect That means the cost for a professional to come to your home and inspect your unit (anywhere from $150 to $500, Consumer Reports estimates) can pay off in the long run. —

Eric Lagatta, Austin American-Statesman, 10 Dec. 2024 With sufficient political will and a big enough coalition, coastal countries including Denmark, Spain, and the United Kingdom, potentially with NATO support, could inspect the tankers and check that their insurance meets International Maritime Organization requirements. —

Theodore Bunzel, Foreign Affairs, 9 Dec. 2024 When customs officers attempted to inspect his vehicle, Soto-Morando tried to flee, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. —

Karen Bartunek, The Arizona Republic, 7 Dec. 2024 Jimmy's next-door neighbor, Derek (Ted McGinley), is by his side attempting to help and inspecting the car by banging on it. —

Dory Jackson, People.com, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for inspect

Recent Examples of Synonyms for inspect

Verb

For a year, The Times has investigated this divide around interrogations, examining methods as well as multiple cases involving false confessions.

Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 23 Dec. 2024
Nevertheless, these price charts are worth examining for any investor with funds allocated by sector.

John Navin, Forbes, 22 Dec. 2024