peruse
Definitions
To read or examine something carefully and thoroughly
细读，仔细审阅
(loosely, now common) to read or look over in a casual, browsing way
（口语化，现常用）随意浏览，翻看
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedper- (thoroughly, through) + use = 'to use up, go through thoroughly.' Originally 'to use up' something, then specifically 'to work through a text completely' = to read carefully from start to finish.
Root us still carries 68 more wordsWhy It Means This
A word in the middle of a meaning split. Strictly, to peruse is to read thoroughly (per- = all the way through). But because it sounds formal and a bit like 'browse,' many speakers now use it loosely for casual skimming — the opposite of the careful original sense. Both are now accepted, but in formal writing 'peruse' still leans toward 'read closely.'
Usage Guide
- Traditional / formal: read thoroughly — 'Please peruse the contract before signing.'
- Loose / modern: skim or browse — 'I perused the menu while waiting.'
Because the two senses pull in opposite directions, prefer 'read carefully' or 'browse' in writing where precision matters.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Please peruse the contract carefully before you sign it.
- 2.
She perused the bookshelves, pulling out a title now and then.
- 3.
The committee perused every page of the lengthy report.