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

Example 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

Once traded to the Milwaukee Bucks for the great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bridgeman, now 71, scans his Louisville, Kentucky office filled with photographs, art and memorabilia from his playing days as one of the most dominant NBA sixth men of his era. —

Jabari Young, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2025 Younger players scanned the room during the meeting and took mental notes of who was present. —

Audrey Snyder, The Athletic, 12 Feb. 2025

Noun

Isabella is now back at USC continuing her communications major but will need scans every three months for the next two or three years. —

Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 22 Jan. 2025 Medicaid in the state may cover menopause care which include tests, scans and exams, as well as medications and hormone therapy, but is dependent on the patient’s age and needs. —

Lauryn Higgins, Flow Space, 24 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for scan

Recent Examples of Synonyms for scan

Verb

Yes, the Reputation Management system examines your social media accounts, but Social Media Monitoring in the main IDShield app has a different purpose.

— PCMAG, PCMAG, 15 Feb. 2025
Through fiscal year 2023, the IRS examined 0.44% of individual returns filed for tax years 2013 through 2021, according to the latest IRS Data Book.

— Kate Dore, CFP®, EA, CNBC, 15 Feb. 2025