SCAN Synonyms: 62 Similar and Opposite Words

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

Some common synonyms of scan are examine , inspect , and scrutinize . While all these words mean "to look at or over," scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation. // scanned the wine list

Q: When is it sensible to use 'examine' instead of 'scan'?

The words examine and scan can be used in similar contexts, but examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing. // examined the specimens

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

The meanings of inspect and scan largely overlap; however, inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects. // inspected my credentials

Q: When could 'scrutinize' be used to replace 'scan'?

In some situations, the words scrutinize and scan are roughly equivalent. However, scrutinize stresses close attention to minute detail. // scrutinized the hospital bill

scan 1 of 2

verb

ˈskan

Definition of scan next

as in to examine

to look over closely (as for judging quality or condition) scanned the manuscript carefully for any overlooked errors

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

scan

2 of 2

noun

as in inspection

a close look at or over someone or something in order to judge condition gave the car a good scan to see if it was worth buying

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of scan are examine, inspect, and scrutinize. While all these words mean "to look at or over," scan implies a surveying from point to point often suggesting a cursory overall observation.

scanned the wine list

When is it sensible to use examine instead of scan?

The words examine and scan can be used in similar contexts, but examine suggests a scrutiny in order to determine the nature, condition, or quality of a thing.

examined the specimens

When would inspect be a good substitute for scan?

The meanings of inspect and scan largely overlap; however, inspect implies scrutinizing for errors or defects.

inspected my credentials

When could scrutinize be used to replace scan?

In some situations, the words scrutinize and scan are roughly equivalent. However, 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 scan

Verb

Akanji, however, scanned prior to receiving from Ortega and, aided by Dias also pointing where to play next, recognised both the need and the opportunity for a different (and much more progressive) pass to Kyle Walker. —

Stuart James, The Athletic, 19 Dec. 2024 With each, users must scan a list of blue links, select and read a source, and abstract any pertinent information. —

Spencer Dorn, Forbes, 13 Dec. 2024

Noun

Initial medical scans showed an internal bruise, with bleeding in his lung. —

Mike Digiovanna, Los Angeles Times, 9 Dec. 2024 The tattooing process begins with a 3D scan being performed on the patient's head. —

Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 13 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for scan

Recent Examples of Synonyms for scan

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