What does perusing mean?
Perusing means reading, inspecting, or examining something carefully and thoroughly. The word is especially appropriate for deliberate review of written material, documents, lists, or evidence, and it conveys a sense of attention and completeness rather than a quick or superficial glance. A person who peruses a report studies its details closely, while someone who simply skims it is looking mainly for particular information. Perusing is the present participle of the more common verb peruse and is often used in formal writing, although the distinction is mainly stylistic rather than grammatical. Its careful, methodical connotation makes it useful for describing extended review, careful reading, and detailed inspection.
verbTo read or examine something carefully and thoroughly, usually in order to understand or extract information from it.
- To read or examine something carefully and thoroughly.
"She spent the afternoon perusing the lengthy contract before signing it."
"The editor perused each submission before selecting the pieces for publication."
"They perused the map carefully, searching for the most reliable route through the mountains."
Perusing literally means using something thoroughly: the word began with the idea of examining material closely, not merely giving it a quick glance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does perusing come from?
The word comes through Middle English from Old French peruser, ultimately from Latin perusus, a form meaning “thoroughly used” or “examined in detail.” The Latin element per- means “thoroughly,” while the underlying root is related to use. The development of the word reflects its original sense of examining something fully or carefully, a meaning retained in modern English.
Related word forms
How perusing is actually used
The present participle perusing is used in formal and literary contexts. It suggests sustained, attentive examination and is generally more deliberate than the everyday expression read through.
Easily confused with perusing
To peruse something is to read or examine it carefully, whereas to pursue something is to follow, chase, or seek it.