Peruse signifies a deliberate and attentive examination of written material, not a quick glance.
Word in 30 Seconds
- To read or examine something with great care.
- Often used for legal documents or detailed reports.
- Implies thoroughness rather than quick observation.
Overview
Peruse is a sophisticated verb that implies a level of scrutiny beyond mere glancing. While it is etymologically rooted in the idea of reading thoroughly, it is frequently used to describe a deliberate, often slow, examination of written material. Usage Patterns: The word is transitive, meaning it requires a direct object, such as a document, report, or list. It is most commonly found in professional or academic settings where precision is required. Common Contexts: You will often encounter 'peruse' in legal contexts (perusing a contract), business meetings (perusing a financial report), or formal settings where one is invited to look over information at their own pace. Similar Words Comparison: Unlike 'skim' or 'scan,' which imply a quick search for information, 'peruse' carries the weight of deep engagement. While 'examine' is a broader synonym that can apply to physical objects, 'peruse' is almost exclusively reserved for text or data-driven content.
Examples
I had time to peruse the menu while waiting for my guests.
everydayI had time to read the menu carefully while waiting for my guests.
The lawyer asked the witness to peruse the document for errors.
formalThe lawyer asked the witness to carefully read the document for errors.
Feel free to peruse our collection of rare books.
informalFeel free to browse our collection of rare books.
Students are expected to peruse the syllabus on the first day.
academicStudents are expected to study the syllabus on the first day.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
for your perusal
for you to examine carefully
upon further perusal
after reading again more carefully
Often Confused With
Skimming means reading quickly to get the main idea. Perusing means reading slowly to catch every detail.
Browsing is casual and aimless. Perusing is focused and intentional.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
Peruse is a formal verb that implies a high level of attention. Because of its formal nature, it sounds out of place in very casual conversation. Always ensure the object being 'perused' is something that requires careful reading.
Common Mistakes
The most common error is using 'peruse' to mean 'glance' or 'skim.' Always remember that if you are reading something quickly, you are not perusing it. Use 'look over' or 'scan' instead for quick actions.
Tips
Use for formal document reviews
Reserve 'peruse' for times when you are reading something important or detailed. It adds a professional tone to your writing.
Avoid confusing with skimming
Many people mistakenly use 'peruse' to mean 'glance over.' Using it this way can confuse readers who know the formal definition.
The evolution of the word
Interestingly, the word has shifted in common usage over time. While dictionaries define it as 'thorough,' many modern speakers use it to mean 'browse,' so be aware of this ambiguity.
Word Origin
Derived from Middle English 'perusen,' which originally meant to use up or consume. Over time, the meaning evolved to specifically refer to the thorough use of written texts.
Cultural Context
In professional environments, asking someone to 'peruse' a document is a polite way of requesting their full attention and critical feedback. It implies respect for the document's contents.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'per-' prefix as 'perfectly.' If you peruse something, you are reading it to understand it perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsNo, that is a common misconception. Peruse actually means the opposite: to read or examine something very carefully and thoroughly.
Yes, it is considered a formal term. It is best suited for professional correspondence, academic writing, or formal announcements.
While it is primarily used for text, it can occasionally be used figuratively to mean 'examine' an object, though this is less common than its use with documents.
Try replacing 'read' or 'look at' with 'peruse' when describing your review of important documents. This will help you get comfortable with the formal tone.
Test Yourself
Please ___ the attached proposal before our meeting tomorrow.
The context implies a need for a careful review before a meeting, which is the perfect use case for 'peruse'.
Score: /1
Summary
Peruse signifies a deliberate and attentive examination of written material, not a quick glance.
- To read or examine something with great care.
- Often used for legal documents or detailed reports.
- Implies thoroughness rather than quick observation.
Use for formal document reviews
Reserve 'peruse' for times when you are reading something important or detailed. It adds a professional tone to your writing.
Avoid confusing with skimming
Many people mistakenly use 'peruse' to mean 'glance over.' Using it this way can confuse readers who know the formal definition.
The evolution of the word
Interestingly, the word has shifted in common usage over time. While dictionaries define it as 'thorough,' many modern speakers use it to mean 'browse,' so be aware of this ambiguity.
Examples
4 of 4I had time to peruse the menu while waiting for my guests.
I had time to read the menu carefully while waiting for my guests.
The lawyer asked the witness to peruse the document for errors.
The lawyer asked the witness to carefully read the document for errors.
Feel free to peruse our collection of rare books.
Feel free to browse our collection of rare books.
Students are expected to peruse the syllabus on the first day.
Students are expected to study the syllabus on the first day.
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